2015 Draft Thread

[Nate Colbert]

Why the fuck not?

6'2" RHP Beau Burrows from Weatherford HS (and an Aggie commit) stands out at PG showcase.

[morningwood75]

Guys to keep an eye on who will most likely be first rounders...

HS OF Kyle Tucker, brother of Preston

HS OF Ryan Johnson, out of College Station

HS RHP Kyle Molnar

HS LHP Justin Hooper

HS OF Daz Cameron, son of Mike

HS SS Brendan Rodgers

HS SS John Aiello

HS SS Nick Shumpert

HS OF Jahmai Jones

Duke RHP Michael Matuella

LSU IF Alex Bregman

Florida State OF D.J. Stewart

Vandy RHP Carson Fulmer

Virginia LHP Nate Kirby

[Reuben]

Hard to imagine a baseball-playing Shumpert not being related to Terry.

[Nate Colbert]

Hard to imagine a baseball-playing Shumpert not being related to Terry.

Son of. Also a cousin to Red Sox uber prospect Mookie Betts.

[Reuben]

This thread just got a whole lot more relevant, with Aiken saying Fuck You. So, who are the real creme-de-la-creme guys from the list above? I know Matuella's name was mentioned as a candidate for 1-1; who else? Bregman?

[Nate Colbert]

This thread just got a whole lot more relevant, with Aiken saying Fuck You. So, who are the real creme-de-la-creme guys from the list above? I know Matuella's name was mentioned as a candidate for 1-1; who else? Bregman?

I've seen Daz Cameron at the top of several lists.

[juliogotay]

No doubt other contenders will arise during the next year.

[OregonStrosFan]

Considering that the Astros are likely to have 2 top 5 picks (potentially as high as 1.1 and 1.2 or 1.2 and 1.3), a comp round pick, and a high 2nd round pick, they could very well have a $20M draft pool in the 2015 draft...  And that has me kinda curious... How is the 2015 draft looking as a whole?!? (Strong draft, weak draft, deep draft, etc...)?!? Other comments on the 2015 draft?

Thanks - I'll hang up and listen.

[astrosfan76]

Considering that the Astros are likely to have 2 top 5 picks (potentially as high as 1.1 and 1.2 or 1.2 and 1.3), a comp round pick, and a high 2nd round pick, they could very well have a $20M draft pool in the 2015 draft...  And that has me kinda curious... How is the 2015 draft looking as a whole?!? (Strong draft, weak draft, deep draft, etc...)?!? Other comments on the 2015 draft?

Thanks - I'll hang up and listen.

I haven't heard anything really one way or another.  It's not a weak draft and doesn't seem to have a Strasburg-level prospect (at this point), but does have some good players at the top.  Where this year's draft was noted as being very deep in LHP and HS pitching, in general, I don't know if there are any such areas next year.  I could be wrong, I just don't remember reading anything like that. 

[Reuben]

2015 just got an intriguing wrinkle: Phil Bickford, who went 10th overall in the 2013 draft but didn't sign, is leaving Cal State-Fullerton to enroll at a juco (presumably) and be eligible for the draft a year sooner. From BA article:

Assuming Bickford winds up in the 2015 draft pool, he has a chance to become the No. 1 overall pick. No other obvious front-runner has established himself, and Bickford already has a top-10 pedigree. But he still must refine his secondary stuff and prove that he can handle a starting role, because his stuff was considerably more electric in a relief role this summer than it was when he started in the spring.

There's more good analysis there, worth a read.
 

[Reuben]

BA's story updated now, with quotes from Cal-Fullerton's coach, who probably won't be sending Bickford any Christmas cards:

“Am I sad that he left? Yes,” Fullerton coach Rick Vanderhook told BA on Tuesday. “Am I upset? Not really. Does it hurt us? It hurts us, but it might work out pretty good, as we go. I have two guys better than him—and two guys that want to play for the team. Our program is not for individuals. If he wanted to be an individual, it’s probably best that he went somewhere else.”

Vanderhook said Bickford did not inform him of his decision to leave the program until this weekend, leaving the Titans no time to find another player to replace him.

“He has a big scholarship, and three days before school, you can’t replace Phil,” Vanderhook said. “I don’t know anybody who can get somebody into school in two days. I can’t. I just wish he would have given us the ability to go get some other guys. That’s selfishness.”

[Nate Colbert]

Kylie McDaniel of Fangraphs with his "way too early" edition of the top 51 draft prospects with this noted in his writeup:

One of the reasons you’ll keep hearing about the Astros and Aiken is because Aiken’s advisor, Casey Close’s Excel Sports Management, represents 6 of my top 15 prospects right now, with a couple of the top 15 prospects still uncommitted to advisors.

[roadrunner]

Did the deadline already pass for Aiken to file a grievance?

[Lefty]

Did the deadline already pass for Aiken to file a grievance?

Yes.

[jbm]

Has he already enrolled at a JC, or can he still do that?  I assume school has started.

[Lefty]

Has he already enrolled at a JC, or can he still do that?  I assume school has started.

Some JC in Arizona, was what I read.

[roadrunner]

I was out of town last week...were there any media reports about the grievance (lack thereof) and any implied narratives? 

[Nate Colbert]

Has he already enrolled at a JC, or can he still do that?  I assume school has started.

He's "expected" to enroll at Yavapai JC, per the Fangraphs article I linked to above.

[Reuben]

BA article on Duke RHP Michael Matuella, who's expected to be an upper-1st-round pick.

[juliogotay]

BA article on Duke RHP Michael Matuella, who's expected to be an upper-1st-round pick.

I'm thinking he won't be available when the Astros draft. It's been awhile since anyone said that.

[OregonStrosFan]

I'm thinking he won't be available when the Astros draft. It's been awhile since anyone said that.

The Astros officially eliminated themselves this weekend from contention for the first overall pick in the draft next year. Been awhile since anyone said that either... FWIW, if the season ended today, the Astros would have picks at 1:2 and 1:7 (and a comp round pick).

[Nate Colbert]

FWIW, if the season ended today, the Astros would have picks at 1:2 and 1:7 (and a comp round pick).

Just a reminder for folks, the comp round pick came from the Marlins in the Cosart trade. That'll be the 1:32 pick. So 3 of the first 32 picks.

[Mike S.]

Hadn't seen this posted yet:

http://www.vavel.com/en-us/mlb/396498-southpaw-hurler-mac-marshall-withdraws-from-lsu-becomes-eligible-for-2015-mlb-draft.html

[Reuben]

Hadn't seen this posted yet:

http://www.vavel.com/en-us/mlb/396498-southpaw-hurler-mac-marshall-withdraws-from-lsu-becomes-eligible-for-2015-mlb-draft.html

It was mentioned here.

[Mike S.]

Thanks, Reuben.  Noticed that shortly after I posted.  I really need to learn how to fucking read.

[Reuben]

Thanks, Reuben.  Noticed that shortly after I posted.  I really need to learn how to fucking read.

Eh. If that's the worst thing you do all week I'd say you're doing pretty good.

[Mike S.]

Given that we're in the home stretch of Harvest out here in wine country, reckon my boss would be pretty happy if that is the worst thing I do all week.

Moving on, looks like the Astros will have four picks out of the first fifty in the 2015 Draft?

#2
#5
#32
#41

Unless I'm missing something (entirely possible), that looks like a pretty damn good position to be drafting from.

[Mike S.]

Crawfish Boxes brings up a good point regarding FA signings affecting the Astros' Second Round pick:

http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2014/9/29/6863937/mlb-draft-2015-draft-order-set-astros-have-second-fifth-overall-picks

[juliogotay]

Given that we're in the home stretch of Harvest out here in wine country, reckon my boss would be pretty happy if that is the worst thing I do all week.

Moving on, looks like the Astros will have four picks out of the first fifty in the 2015 Draft?

#2
#5
#32
#41

Unless I'm missing something (entirely possible), that looks like a pretty damn good position to be drafting from.

Are you in Napa?

[NeilT]

Are you in Napa?

More importantly, are you making wine?

[Mike S.]

To juliogotay and NeilT, yes on both accounts.  Moved out from Austin in 2009 and been out here ever since. 

[NeilT]

To juliogotay and NeilT, yes on both accounts.  Moved out from Austin in 2009 and been out here ever since. 

Which winery?

[Mr. Happy]

To juliogotay and NeilT, yes on both accounts.  Moved out from Austin in 2009 and been out here ever since. 

I was in Napa (off of Jefferson St. not far from El Centro) until August 2012.

[Mike S.]

Regret not meeting up with you while both of us were in Napa, Mr. Happy.  My girlfriend's old place in the alphabet streets was actually not all that far from where you used to be.

NeilT, I work for Turley Wine Cellars overseeing vineyards and production work.  You make it out this way at all?

[BizidyDizidy]

Big customer of yours

[juliogotay]

To juliogotay and NeilT, yes on both accounts.  Moved out from Austin in 2009 and been out here ever since. 

Spent a couple of days in Napa last week. I envy you.

[NeilT]

Regret not meeting up with you while both of us were in Napa, Mr. Happy.  My girlfriend's old place in the alphabet streets was actually not all that far from where you used to be.

NeilT, I work for Turley Wine Cellars overseeing vineyards and production work.  You make it out this way at all?

Turley is outstanding.  I just failed to order this year, but I still have about half a case from a couple of years ago.  I wish I did get out there, but now maybe I have a reason to go!

[Mike S.]

Gents, a heartfelt thanks for your support.  It means a lot to me personally (validates what I do for a living) and I'm only half joking when I say you're paying my salary.

If anyone does make it out to Napa, please abuse my hospitality.  We don't have a tasting room at the winery in St. Helena where I work, but more than happy to crack open a few bottles for fellow Astros fans.  It's not like the team hasn't driven us to drink or anything.

NeilT: what do you have in your cellar?

juliogotay: I tell people all the time there's a reason why I pay to live in California.

[Mr. Happy]

Regret not meeting up with you while both of us were in Napa, Mr. Happy.  My girlfriend's old place in the alphabet streets was actually not all that far from where you used to be.

NeilT, I work for Turley Wine Cellars overseeing vineyards and production work.  You make it out this way at all?

Same here. I love to take people out to eat. Our neighborhood place was Fume. We ate there 5-7 times a month.

[NeilT]

NeilT: what do you have in your cellar?

i thought I had some 2010s, but clearly the Cellar Gremlins have been at work.  I've still got 9 bottles of 2011,  2 Duarte, 4 Dusi, 2 Dragon, and 1 Juvenil. Frankly, I don't remember anything about them, except that I'm very fond of Zins, and I've never had a Turley Zin that I wouldn't have happily had two more. 

[Mike S.]

Cellars gremlins are jerks.  Can't tell you how many times they've raided my stash of wines.

Dragon is one of the vineyards I work with the most.  One of the highest plantings in Napa and some stunning views.  Also Larry Turley's favorite wine.  I've walked the vineyards for the Duarte blend many times.  Amazing places.  Literally like walking on the beach because of all the deposited material from the Sacramento Delta.  Heard stories of similar situations in Greece and the Canary Islands, but I've never anything like it myself. 

Overall, I love the 2011 wines we made.  You're in a great place to drink or hold what you've got for several more years easily.

[Mike S.]

Same here. I love to take people out to eat. Our neighborhood place was Fume. We ate there 5-7 times a month.

Fume is a great place.  Haven't been there in awhile, but the bartender and I used to give each other a fair amount of shit - him being an ou fan and me being more enlightened because Dad was a Texas Ex and I learned "Hook 'em, Horns" before I could walk.

[NeilT]

Cellars gremlins are jerks.  Can't tell you how many times they've raided my stash of wines.

Dragon is one of the vineyards I work with the most.  One of the highest plantings in Napa and some stunning views.  Also Larry Turley's favorite wine.  I've walked the vineyards for the Duarte blend many times.  Amazing places.  Literally like walking on the beach because of all the deposited material from the Sacramento Delta.  Heard stories of similar situations in Greece and the Canary Islands, but I've never anything like it myself. 

Overall, I love the 2011 wines we made.  You're in a great place to drink or hold what you've got for several more years easily.

Good, 'cause I almost like them too much to drink them, if that makes sense.

[Mr. Happy]

Fume is a great place.  Haven't been there in awhile, but the bartender and I used to give each other a fair amount of shit - him being an ou fan and me being more enlightened because Dad was a Texas Ex and I learned "Hook 'em, Horns" before I could walk.

Adam, the bartender, is the man!!! He's an Oklahoma fan, so I used to give him some "Big Game Bob" shit.

[Mike S.]

I have that problem all too often.  Usually, wine helps me make a more informed decision.

[Mike S.]

Adam, the bartender, is the man!!! He's an Oklahoma fan, so I used to give him some "Big Game Bob" shit.

As you should, and I say liking Adam a great deal.

[NeilT]

After the wine tasting, it's probably time to return this thread to the 2015 draft.

[austro]

After the wine tasting, it's probably time to return this thread to the 2015 draft.

Ok, what 2015 wines will you be drafting for your cellar?

Seriously, though, where does one find the Turley wines? I'm intrigued, although I'm not normally a Zin guy.

[NeilT]

Ok, what 2015 wines will you be drafting for your cellar?

Seriously, though, where does one find the Turley wines? I'm intrigued, although I'm not normally a Zin guy.

You get your name on their mailing list and then once a year they send out an invitation to order.  Rarely you'll see a bottle in a store, or on a restaurant menu.  For many years it's been considered one of the best red wines out of California, and from my experience it is. It's not all that expensive, either, except I did see a bottle of Turley white for well over $100 recently.  I was confused.

[Mike S.]

Kind words, Neil, and I agree with you regarding the quality of the wine (admittedly, I'm biased because I help make the stuff). 

Roughly 75% of our wine is sold direct on the Mailing List, the rest going out into distribution.  So, you can find them in wine shops and on restaurant lists, but as Neil pointed out the markup can be pretty high. 

[Nate Colbert]

MLB.com with their top 50 Draft List. Their initial assessment six months out: lotsa pitching but light on position players with Rodgers, Matuella and Aiken the clear leaders at this early stage.

[pots]

MLB.com with their top 50 Draft List. Their initial assessment six months out: lotsa pitching but light on position players with Rodgers, Matuella and Aiken the clear leaders at this early stage.

I'd be shocked if Aiken went top 5.  (Especially given the Astros have 2 of those picks).  And top 10 is likely a long shot.  After that though the gamble is likely worth it.

[hostros7]

I'd be shocked if Aiken went top 5.  (Especially given the Astros have 2 of those picks).  And top 10 is likely a long shot.  After that though the gamble is likely worth it.

Aiken's draft slot will be quite telling with regards to discerning whether or not the Astros were jerking him around. 

[astrosfan76]

Aiken's draft slot will be quite telling with regards to discerning whether or not the Astros were jerking him around. 

Depending on how high he goes, it may only be telling of how one club feels the Astros handled the situation.  Since other clubs won't have access to his medical records, if they feel he's the best option, even weighing possible medical problems, he could go pretty high.  That doesn't mean Luhnow handled the situation wrongly, just that another club may have handled it differently. 

[Reuben]

MLB.com with their top 50 Draft List. Their initial assessment six months out: lotsa pitching but light on position players with Rodgers, Matuella and Aiken the clear leaders at this early stage.

Interesting that 4 of their top 6 are college players. Bodes well for the Astros if they're hoping to make up for some of the lost development time of what should've been 2014's 1/1 signing. A guy like Matuella or Buehler or Kirby is likely to reach the majors before Aiken even if Aiken had started his pro career this summer.

[Mike S.]

Had a very similar thought reading over that list.  Several very advanced arms at the top who could make things very interesting for the Astros with the second and fifth picks.

[toddthebod]

Are there any college power hitters in the draft like AJ Reed orJD Davis were last year?

[Astrofan59]

Really hoping some hitters step up, and at least one, but preferably two, gets selected in the first round.  If not, I really like Bickford.

[Reuben]

Are there any college power hitters in the draft like AJ Reed orJD Davis were last year?

Going off the above list, the top college guys that project to hit for power are Gio Brusa (#34) and Chris Shaw (#39). Obviously, the industry consensus will change a lot between now and June, but you also have to wonder if teams will grab them higher simply because of the scarcity of college power (and good college hitters overall). Maybe even work out below-slot deals like the Cubs did with Schwarber this year.

[astrosfan76]

Going off the above list, the top college guys that project to hit for power are Gio Brusa (#34) and Chris Shaw (#39). Obviously, the industry consensus will change a lot between now and June, but you also have to wonder if teams will grab them higher simply because of the scarcity of college power (and good college hitters overall). Maybe even work out below-slot deals like the Cubs did with Schwarber this year.

Maybe, but that was also a theme this year.  The catch with Reed and Davis was that they didn't have a lot of positional value.  If Davis was considered a 3B entering the draft, he may have gone a little higher, but he was stuck behind a very good defensive 3B on the depth chart.  So, he didn't have a lot of opportunity to play there.  He's not Brooks Robinson over there now, but he's at least getting a shot to show he can handle a more demanding position. 

[Nate Colbert]

Tracy Ringolsby reports:

[Aiken] has yet to enroll in a school this winter. The expectation is he will attend the IMG Academy, which offers a developmental program in a variety of sports, including baseball, and has a prep school as part of its program, which will allow him to re-enter the Draft next June. Former Reds third baseman Chris Sabo is the head coach of the IMG Academy baseball program.

[Nate Colbert]

And Jacob Nix will also be attending the IMG Academy, per this tweet from Mark Baker (@MBakerTBTimes) of the Tampa Bay Times.

And here's the press release from IMG Academy announcing his enrollment.

[Nate Colbert]

And Jacob Nix will also be attending the IMG Academy, per this tweet from Mark Baker (@MBakerTBTimes) of the Tampa Bay Times.

And here's the press release from IMG Academy announcing his enrollment.

Here's this from a McTaggart piece:

Dan Simonds, director of baseball at IMG, said Nix will get about 8-10 starts for the IMG post-graduate team, which he compared to a good junior college-level team. The post-grad team, which is made up of recent high school graduates, will face JUCO teams and Division III junior varsity teams.

[Nate Colbert]

College baseball junkies rejoice as ESPN announces 100 SEC games to be carried this spring on SEC Network, ESPNU, etc. As far as showcasing top draft prospects, Vandy (RHP Walker Buehler, INF Dansby Swanson, RHP Carson Fulmer, RHP Tyler Ferguson) and Florida (SS Richie Martin) will each have 12 games televised and LSU (SS Alex Bregman, OF Andrew Stevenson) 13 games. Tennessee (OF Christin Stewart) gets on the tube 11 times, the Aggies (RHP Grayson Long) will have 10 games on TV and ditto for Bama (SS Mikey White), Kentucky (RHP Kyle Cody) 9 games. Cincinnati (OF Ian Happ), Clemson (OF Steven Duggar) and Florida State (OF D.J. Stewart) all show up in a pair of non-conference games while Louisville (RHP Kyle Funkhouser), Miami (LHP Andrew Suarez) and Arizona (SS Kevin Newman) are televised once apiece.

Also, the entire SEC tournament will be nationally televised for the 1st time.

[Nate Colbert]

Callis says it's still unknown as to where Brady Aiken will be pitching. Touches on the four options: JUCO (though that's pretty unlikely now given how late it's gotten), IMG Academy, indy league and working out in front of MLB scouts.

"We're trying to figure out where he's going to pitch, just like you are," an executive from a team with an early first-round selection said. "He definitely would be in our mix if he gets to us, and we'd like to get our eyes on him and his medical reports as soon as we can."

[astrosfan76]

Michael Matuella pitched in an intrasquad game yesterday in front of about 30 scouts. This was the first time he had pitched in a while, after taking off the summer and fall.

Matuella pounded both sides of the plate with a devastating fastball and showed the ability to finish his delivery and hammer the bottom of the zone. In his first inning, the fastball sat 93-95 mph and touched 96, featuring plus movement, with run to the armside and natural sink. In his second inning, Matuella maintained movement and command, although his velocity dropped to 91-92. This is not a concern, however, because Matuella had yet to pitch at full speed this spring.

He also showed a good changeup, which was considered his most impressive pitch of the day. The pitch projects as at least above-average at the MLB level. He also threw a slurve in warmups, which showed promise.

Now, the reason he hadn't pitched since last season:

Matuella was diagnosed this summer with spondylolysis, a common and manageable condition. Between 3 to 7 percent of the American population has spondylolysis, according to the Cleveland Clinic, which defines it as “a specific defect in the connection between vertebrae.”

I had never heard of this condition, but the above-referenced clinic also says this about the condition:

This defect can lead to small stress fractures (breaks) in the vertebrae that can weaken the bones so much that one slips out of place, a condition called spondylolisthesis. Spondylolysis is a very common cause of low back pain...

Conservative treatment—rest, medication, exercise, and bracing—is often successful at relieving pain and swelling, especially when treatment is started early. A majority of people can have a significant reduction in pain and can return to normal activities following early treatment of spondylolysis.

If you have spondylolysis, it is important to choose activities and sports that do not place your lower back at risk for injury. Swimming and biking are possible options.

Good for the guy that he was able to start treatment, but I wonder how much this will affect his draft position; pitching 200 innings a season is not exactly swimming. Maybe he'll have no problems over the next 10 years, but I can't see teams not wanting access to his medicals before dropping $5M+ and a high pick for the guy.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/dukes-matuella-impresses-first-outing-spring/
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases_conditions/hic_your_back_and_neck/hic_Spondylolysis

[Nate Colbert]

Aggie LHP Tyler Stubblefield, a likely top 10 round pick, out with torn ACL (per various tweets).

[pots]

Aggie LHP Tyler Stubblefield, a likely top 10 round pick, out with torn ACL (per various tweets).

Interesting perhaps someone to snag with the compensation pick

[BUWebguy]

An executive from a team with an early first-round selection said ... "we'd like to get our eyes on him and his medical reports as soon as we can."

What medical reports would a team be getting before the draft? Wasn't that what caused this whole problem with Aiken in the first place?

[Nate Colbert]

What medical reports would a team be getting before the draft? Wasn't that what caused this whole problem with Aiken in the first place?

There's nothing that prevents clubs from *asking* for medicals prior to the draft. The normal response would be a stiff-arm from the player and his representatives. But where there's already significant questions as to a player's health, it generally behooves them to go ahead and provide such information. With what happened with the Astros, the only way Aiken/Close are going to get anything close to what was offered previously is for them to be upfront and disclose this.

[Reuben]

Exactly. Some players even take the initiative and share their medicals with teams, usually if they've had a recent injury or health questions. The college LHP (Freeman?) that the Rocks took in the 1st round last year, for example.

[Duman]

I am sure the Astros knew all of the details of Ruiz's rib issue when they drafted him.

[Nate Colbert]

JUCO season started up Friday.

As we all painfully remember, LHP Mac Marshall detoured to the JUCO ranks after everything unraveled. He was of course originally headed to LSU. Anyway, Perfect Game has him ranked the #2 overall JUCO prospect heading into the season. He made his debut Friday for his Chipola squad which lost a doubleheader in a Clearwater, Fla tourney. Struggled, giving up 4 runs in 2 innings though he did strike out four.

That Indians team is relatively loaded, prospect-wise. 1B/OF Isiah Gilliam was drafted in the 23rd round by the Cubs last year and is from the same Georgia HS as Marshall. PG has him ranked the #5 JUCO prospect. SS Reese Cooley was a 26th round pick by the Indians last year and PG has him as the #9 JUCO prospect.

Gilliam had three hits in one of those losses, against San Jac. The Gators have a top draft prospect of their own: RHP Riley Smith, who got the win versus Chipola while giving up a run on 6 hits in five frames. PG has him as the #4 JUCO prospect. Trivia: both Jose Bautista and Russell Martin played at Chipola before being drafted as did Buck Showalter before going on to Mississippi State.

All four guys mentioned are candidates to go in the top 10 rounds of this year's draft (if not higher), although Smith is an LSU commit which may drop him to the later rounds.

A few other JUCO names to know along with their schools, PG ranking and anything else relevant (or even not-so-relevant):

• #1 RHP Phil Bickford, College of Southern Nevada. Probably already know the name but if not scroll upward in the thread where Reuben discusses him.
• #3 RHP Chandler Eden, Yavapai College. Pitched at Oregon State as a freshman before transferring to the JUCO ranks. More trivia: guys who attended and were drafted out of Yavapai include Billy Hatcher, Charlie Kerfeld and Curt Schilling.
• #8 RHP Grayson Jones, Shelton State Community College. 14th round pick of the Indians in 2014. Auburn commit. And even more trivia: the head coach at Shelton State is former Astros pitcher Bobby Sprowl.

[Reuben]

Are Aiken and Nix not officially in JUCO yet?

[austro]

JUCO season started up Friday.

Thanks for the info. I'll probably be headed out to Colorado again for the JUCO WS this hear, and Yavapai, College of Southern Nevada, Chipola, and San Jac are frequent members of the field there, so I may get a chance to watch some of these guys.

[Nate Colbert]

Are Aiken and Nix not officially in JUCO yet?

I've posted about both earlier in this thread. Nix will not be in JUCO as he's enrolled at IMG Academy instead. Due to enrollment considerations (see this previously referenced Jim Callis article), JUCO now appears out for Aiken. That leaves him three options: IMG Academy, indy league or simply working out in front of scouts.

[pots]

I've posted about both earlier in this thread. Nix will not be in JUCO as he's enrolled at IMG Academy instead. Due to enrollment considerations (see this previously referenced Jim Callis article), JUCO now appears out for Aiken. That leaves him three options: IMG Academy, indy league or simply working out in front of scouts.

Doesn't seem like he's running out their to prove the Astros were wrong

[Reuben]

I've posted about both earlier in this thread. Nix will not be in JUCO as he's enrolled at IMG Academy instead. Due to enrollment considerations (see this previously referenced Jim Callis article), JUCO now appears out for Aiken. That leaves him three options: IMG Academy, indy league or simply working out in front of scouts.

Thanks. I lost track amidst all the boring "what will Aiken and Nix do??" drama.

Doesn't seem like he's running out their to prove the Astros were wrong

It sure doesn't. Perhaps he will end up throwing a HS season's worth of innings by June, but it wouldn't surprise me if he ends up being limited to much less than that. I suspect Close's petulance has cost his client a couple million bucks or more.

[roadrunner]

It sure doesn't. Perhaps he will end up throwing a HS season's worth of innings by June, but it wouldn't surprise me if he ends up being limited to much less than that. I suspect Close's petulance has cost his client a couple million bucks or more.

I don't see how he comes out ahead financially. The Astros have 2 of the top 5 picks and we know they aren't drafting him.  I imagine the other three teams will be hesitant, too.

I'm looking forward to the Drellich article in June that is some Aiken sob story all caused by the Astros FO and their computers.

[astrosfan76]

I don't see how he comes out ahead financially. The Astros have 2 of the top 5 picks and we know they aren't drafting him.  I imagine the other three teams will be hesitant, too.

I'm looking forward to the Drellich article in June that is some Aiken sob story all caused by the Astros FO and their computers.

It's possible, but there aren't a lot of ways for it to happen. The D-Backs have the straight 1 pick in each round, plus pick 74 (end of Comp Round B). We have the most flexibility, but won't be touching him. The Rockies have 3, 28, 38, and 48, though, so if they were inclined, they could give him the original $6.5M, if the D-Backs didn't pick him first. At 4, the Rangers, after slot increases, could come close to $5M without decreasing their other slots. With a senior sign, or two, in the first 10 rounds, they could do an extra half million, or so. After that, a team would have to be really creative to give him $5M+.

He will be picked, he's the best talent in the class. He will pitch this spring, somewhere. I don't see him sitting out the season and just pitching in tryouts; that, to me, would signal a major concern in the health of his elbow on his agent's part, were that to happen. So, I imagine he'll pitch in independent ball or IMG to prove himself. But, the less he pitches, the less likely it is that he gets that $5M+.

[Nate Colbert]

As we all painfully remember, LHP Mac Marshall detoured to the JUCO ranks after everything unraveled. He was of course originally headed to LSU. Anyway, Perfect Game has him ranked the #2 overall JUCO prospect heading into the season. He made his debut Friday for his Chipola squad which lost a doubleheader in a Clearwater, Fla tourney. Struggled, giving up 4 runs in 2 innings though he did strike out four.

That Indians team is relatively loaded, prospect-wise. 1B/OF Isiah Gilliam was drafted in the 23rd round by the Cubs last year and is from the same Georgia HS as Marshall. PG has him ranked the #5 JUCO prospect. SS Reese Cooley was a 26th round pick by the Indians last year and PG has him as the #9 JUCO prospect.

Just noticed that C/1B Ryan McCullers is on that Chipola squad as well. Yes, he's the brother/son of the Lances.

[Reuben]

Just noticed that C/1B Ryan McCullers is on that Chipola squad as well. Yes, he's the brother/son of the Lances.

Berkman and Armstrong had a baby?

[Nate Colbert]

Apparently the first in a series of articles as MLB.com follows #1 draft prospect SS Brendan Rodgers from now until June 8th.

[Nate Colbert]

The DII schedule got cranked up this week. Perhaps the two highest ratest prospects at that level pitch just 15 miles away from one another, RHP Cody Ponce at Cal Poly Pomona and Azusa Pacific's RHP Josh Staumont.

Ponce is 6'6"/240 and had an outstanding season this past summer in the Cape Cod League (CCL). He's projected as a 1st-rounder on a number of early draft boards (ranked #20 at MLB.com, #11 at FG, #24 at BA).

Staumont is a 6'2"/205 fireballer with control issues who falls right now into the 51-100 range in terms of draft rankings. Walked 19 in 21 IP in the CCL this past summer. He saw action on Thursday in the 1st game of a DH against CSU-Monterey Bay:

Ronit Shah ‏@Rontrarian  5h ago
Josh Staumont, perhaps the hardest thrower in this draft, went 4 innings today. 7 strikeouts, 5 walks, 2 hits, 1 earned run.

Ponce may pitch today when Pomona starts its season against Dixie State at Bruce Hurst Field in St. George, Utah. And we may see a Ponce/Staumont matchup next Friday as AP and Cal Poly kick off a 2-game series.

CPP and AP each had 3 players selected in last June's MLB draft.

ETA:

Just noticed this article on the two pitchers over at Perfect Game.

[Nate Colbert]

Dave Coggin ‏@PFAbaseball  5h ago
Jake Nix IMG Academy in FL was 95-96 through 4 inning 7k's no walks 1 hit in his first outing.

[juliogotay]

The draft has been moved to July 1st. This piece discusses some of the ramifications of that. http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2015/2/6/7961855/the-death-of-the-mlb-june-draft

[Reuben]

Pretty sure that's just a possible change for future years, not this one, or any as yet.

[juliogotay]

Pretty sure that's just a possible change for future years, not this one, or any as yet.

You are right. Apparently a meeting of the minds to do so after this years' June draft.

[Nate Colbert]

Phil Bickford struck out 8 in 4.2 IP in the opener for Southern Nevada last weekend. In his 2nd start today:

Eric Longenhagen ‏@longenhagen  2h ago
Phil Bickford likely done after 5 no-hit innings. Fastball 90-92, touched 94. Slider 78-81 flashing plus.

Turns out he did go out for the 6th inning but his velocity was down and his fastball was up. Ended up going 5 2/3 with 3 runs allowed on a HR. 9 Ks, 3 BBs.

 

[astrosfan76]

BA noted the same with his pitches, noting that he hasn't thrown a changeup this season, yet.

Bickford has a chance to improve his draft stock from 2013, especially if he can continue to showcase the overpowering stuff he unleashed in the Cape Cod League this summer. His fastball sat in the mid-90s and bumped the high 90s in a relief role this summer, but he often pitched with an average fastball in a starting role this spring. He’ll need to prove he can maintain electric stuff as a starter—and show more consistent secondary stuff—in order to be drafted in the top 10 picks again this year.

The article also mentions that he reportedly wanted $4.25M to turn pro out of high school. Fullerton can be a hard school to pull kids away from, so I wonder if his demands will be as high this time around. He would perform a big favor for himself if he could bump his fastball back to the same 90-96 MPH pitch he had as a senior, with great life and command. Otherwise, he may find himself at a third college next year.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/game-report-phil-bickford/

[Nate Colbert]

Some might recall Ronit Shah for the information he provided on Mark Appel's starts last year at Lancaster. He also tracks many of the amateur draft prospects in and around SoCal (and writes about them for FG). Definitely a guy to follow on the twitterverse if you're a draft junkie.

Ronit Shah ‏@Rontrarian  15m ago
UCLA 6'4" LHP Hunter Virant missed all of '14 (injury), but is back on the mound now & draft eligible. Some video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_d-lNCIXt0A …

Virant of course was drafted out of HS by the Astros in the 11th round in 2012 but DNS.

[Nate Colbert]

And a third report on Bickford's start, this one from Perfect Game:

Without question [the fastball] plays much better than the number typically would indicate. The four-seamer explodes on hitters due to his outstanding extension which we’ll touch on shortly. The slider is an average pitch on its own, a little slurvy at times but most often a strike. It sat around 80 mph but didn’t have great depth.

But as the article suggests (and astrosfan76 has already noted), that reliever profile may make a top 10 pick and a $4.25MM salary demand a tad optimistic this time round.

Great read--check out the entire article.

[astrosfan76]

I was about to post the PG article myself. It really is worth reading. He breaks down his mechanics and what goes into what he describes as an "elite" pitch that "made him giggle". That label sounds contradictory to what BA calls an average pitch, but it seems they (BA) are focusing more on velocity than the overall effectiveness of the pitch.

[juliogotay]

Some might recall Ronit Shah for the information he provided on Mark Appel's starts last year at Lancaster. He also tracks many of the amateur draft prospects in and around SoCal (and writes about them for FG). Definitely a guy to follow on the twitterverse if you're a draft junkie.

Virant of course was drafted out of HS by the Astros in the 11th round in 2012 but DNS.

Do you know anything about where Virant may be taken this year? Higher than round 11? Was his injury arm-related?

[Nate Colbert]

Do you know anything about where Virant may be taken this year? Higher than round 11? Was his injury arm-related?

Stress fracture in his back. That after pitching in just 5 games as a freshman. He would have gone much higher back in 2012 but the UCLA commit scared teams off until the Astros popped him in the 11th round (going in to the draft, BA had him ranked at #53). He may still be ranked 2nd-5th round talent-wise but he's got to show he's healthy this spring. As a draft-eligible sophomore, Virant has plenty of leverage so signability could again be an issue.

[juliogotay]

Stress fracture in his back. That after pitching in just 5 games as a freshman. He would have gone much higher back in 2012 but the UCLA commit scared teams off until the Astros popped him in the 11th round (going in to the draft, BA had him ranked at #53). He may still be ranked 2nd-5th round talent-wise but he's got to show he's healthy this spring. As a draft-eligible sophomore, Virant has plenty of leverage so signability could again be an issue.

Thank you.

[Nate Colbert]

Phil Bickford, ad nauseum:

Eric Longenhagen (see his earlier tweet above) has a more complete report including video on Bickford's start for FG.

[Nate Colbert]

With the Shields signing the last piece, BA has the final draft order here and if you scroll down to the second table they estimate the Astros bonus pool at $17,977,283.

[Nate Colbert]

With the Shields signing the last piece, BA has the final draft order here and if you scroll down to the second table they estimate the Astros bonus pool at $17,977,283.

MLB.com says $17,370,400 using a 9% estimated increase as opposed to BA's 13%.

[Nate Colbert]

PG article about what they say is a strong HS class out of Florida this year (though there are a couple of 2016 kids in there as well). Rodgers, Tucker, RHP Austin Smith, RHP Triston McKenzie and OF Daniel Reyes of that group have been previously identified as possible 1st rounders/early 2nd rounders.

[Nate Colbert]

Don't think it adds anything to what we already knew about Matuella (spondylolisis, developed his changeup) but still a nice article discussing his history.

[Nate Colbert]

Some injury news:

1) Vandy righty Walker Buehler, ranked as high as#4 in some draft lists, is suffering from a sore elbow.

2) U of Virginia OF Joe McCarthy had back surgery several weeks ago and will miss 3 months of the season. If healthy, he's a likely late 1st-rounder/early 2nd-rounder.

3) SoCal HSer Tyler Nevin is apparently healthy again after having TJS that caused him to miss his entire junior season. Talent-wise, he appears to be a 3rd-5th round pick but a UCLA commit could drop him to later rounds. Yes, he's the son of that guy and of course is a 3B.

[Nate Colbert]

Week of 2/13

D1 season starts today. A couple of televised games in the upcoming week if you're interested in checking out draft prospects. The TCU game on Sunday vs Southern Illinois is on FSSW+. The Horned Frogs have a bevy of top-notch pitching talent: LHP Alex Young, RHP Riley Ferrell (closer), LHP Tyler Alexander, RHP Mitchell Traver, RHP Preston Morrison. I think I read Alexander is scheduled to start that game against the Salukis.

The UTSA vs UT game on Tuesday is on LHN (as are all home games for the Horns). Not the strongest of draft groups I don't believe from the Forty Acres except for SS C.J. Hinojosa. The Klein Collins product was of course drafted by the Astros in the 26th round back in 2012. Maybe a 2nd rounder this year. Other lesser names on the team to watch for during the season: OF Ben Johnson, RHP Chad Hollingsworth (moving into the starting rotation this season), RHP Parker French (Tigers' 19th-rounder last year). Those who follow the the Longhorns closer than I can throw out other draft-eligible guys to keep an eye on. C John Bormann from Seguin and RHP Brock Hartson (Pearland HS) are a couple of Roadrunners draft prospects. The latter is the Friday starter for UTSA so you're not going to see him versus the Horns. Like French, Bormann was drafted in the 19th round last year but turned down the Angels and their $100K offer.

If HRs increase significantly in D1 this year, this'll be the reason why.

[jbm]

Thanks for all the info.  Is Hinojosa eligible, and is the second round the current projection?  I was very impressed by him last year, and was curious what round correlated to his level of talent.  Second round seems about right, but I would think mid to low 1st round is still possible.

Compared to the those voicing opinions in the article, I have only seen a tiny fraction of college baseball, but I enjoyed the low scoring last year.

[Mr. Happy]

Thanks for all the info.  Is Hinojosa eligible, and is the second round the current projection?  I was very impressed by him last year, and was curious what round correlated to his level of talent.  Second round seems about right, but I would think mid to low 1st round is still possible.

Compared to the those voicing opinions in the article, I have only seen a tiny fraction of college baseball, but I enjoyed the low scoring last year.

Normally, I far prefer a low scoring game, but they had so deadened the bats that I wass watching kids who clearly squared up a pitch who had power drive the ball not even to the warning track. They've reduced the seams on the ball this year in an attempt to increase offense. At LSU this fall, the new ball produced about 50% more homeruns.

[roadrunner]

Thanks for all the info.  Is Hinojosa eligible, and is the second round the current projection?  I was very impressed by him last year, and was curious what round correlated to his level of talent.  Second round seems about right, but I would think mid to low 1st round is still possible.

Compared to the those voicing opinions in the article, I have only seen a tiny fraction of college baseball, but I enjoyed the low scoring last year.

I don't go to baseball games for dingers, but there is a lost element when the threat of a homer is almost completely removed from the game.

[Nate Colbert]

Is Hinojosa eligible, and is the second round the current projection?  I was very impressed by him last year, and was curious what round correlated to his level of talent.  Second round seems about right, but I would think mid to low 1st round is still possible.

Hinojosa is a junior and thus eligible. There seems to be a relatively deep crop of shortstops this year. Beyond Brendan Rodgers, draft gurus tend to like Alex Bregman, Dansby Swanson, Richie Martin, Kevin Newman, Mikey White and a few others a bit more than Hinojosa. Thus, he tends to fall in to 2nd-4th round territory in these early, early draft rankings. Given the Astros familiarity with him, certainly a guy to keep an eye on as far as a possibility at #37 or #46.

[Nate Colbert]

I don't have access to the full article but in the tease K. Law has this to say about Jacob Nix's showing last night:

Nix threw on Thursday night in front of about 50 scouts, his second outing already this spring, and he's already improved his stock since last year. Nix has added about 25 pounds of muscle, and he looks perfectly built for major league workloads. If he builds up his arm strength to where he can hold 92-94 for six innings by the end of the spring, he's got a good chance to go in the back of the first round thanks to his size, stuff and the fact that he's already a bit famous. (It never hurts you in the draft to be well-known.)

[Nate Colbert]

And we may see a Ponce/Staumont matchup next Friday as AP and Cal Poly kick off a 2-game series.

Ponce went 4 1/3 tonight with no runs, 6 k's and threw 66 pitches because of a strict pitch count. Staumont was done after 5 2/3 with 5 walks and 9 k's.

According to Kylie McDaniel:
‏

@kileymcd  4 hours ago
Cody Ponce-Josh Staumont matchup going as expected: Staumont hit 100 w/inconsistent CB & walks, Ponce commanding 92-94 t95, flashing plus SL

[Nate Colbert]

Matuella and Duke ventured to PAC 12 country to open the season against Cal.

One report says his velo was sitting 95 in 1st inning and touching 97 (another said 93-96). Apparently dropped after that.

His final line: 6 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 8 K. Three of the hits were INF singles.

And there was this:

Chris Crawford @CrawfordChrisV  ·  3 hours ago
Sitting behind a GM who has a top three pick this year. Let the rumor mongering begin!

Did Luhnow tag along with Crane and Kibbe on the Pebble Beach trip?

[Reuben]

I'd be more surprised if he wasn't there. I imagine they'll have someone important at every one of his starts.

[astrosfan76]

Another guy who could have someone trailing all his starts: Nathan Kirby.  In a game that started at 32 degrees, he sat at 92-94, before dipping slightly to 91-93 later in the game. He had good, late action, with deception on the pitch, as well as an above-average slider and even better changeup. The changeup is a pitch that has improved and with three abover-average pitches, could help him go very high on draft day.

http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=10898

[Nate Colbert]

keithlaw @keithlaw  ·  44 minutes ago
Heard ex-closer Dillon Tate has been 94-96 today as a starter for UCSB, touching 98.

Finished his day against BYU, going 6.2 IP 3 H 0 R 2 W 8 K.

The 6’2/185 righty for the Gauchos has shown up as high as late 1st round on a number of early draft boards.

[Nate Colbert]

Ponce went 4 1/3 tonight with no runs, 6 k's and threw 66 pitches because of a strict pitch count. Staumont was done after 5 2/3 with 5 walks and 9 k's.

Video on Staumont from that game.

[Nate Colbert]

More on the Matuella start last night:

Michael Matuella lived up to the billing of a potential No. 1 overall draft pick with six smooth, scoreless innings. In the first inning, he sat 93-96 mph and mowed through the top of the Cal lineup, needing just 11 pitches to strike out the side. More impressive was the way he moved the ball in and out and relied on his offspeed pitches later in the outing once Cal started making better contact with his fastball, which dropped to 88-92 mph after the first frame.

Also reiterated earlier reports from this spring that the changeup he's added to his arsenal has quickly become his best pitch.

[Nate Colbert]

The 6’2/185 righty for the Gauchos [Dillon Tate] has shown up as high as late 1st round on a number of early draft boards.

Aaron Fitt of D1BASEBALL.com (formerly with BA) says in this column that after Saturday's showing if Tate continues his successful conversion to starter he may be a darkhorse guy to go 1/1.

[Nate Colbert]

Vandy may have the best pitching staff in the country but that didn't much faze Jose Vizcaino, Jr of Santa Clara University this weekend. Vizcaino is the Broncos' best player and showed it by going 5-10 with 5 walks and 2 steals against the Dores in the 3-game opening season series. Like his old man, Jose plays SS. He was drafted in the 36th round in 2012 by the Dodgers (his dad then and now works in their front office). Coming into the season, the junior was projected as a middle-round pick.

[Nate Colbert]

BA recaps opening day weekend results for the top draft prospects from the college ranks.

As far as pitchers as possibilities to go in the top 5, in addition to Matuella and Kirby keep an eye on Kyle Funkhouser of Louisville. Absolutely dominant in his initial start (7 IP 1 H 0 R 1 W 12 K) even though the competition may not have been the strongest in Alabama State.

Another top 5 candidate, Vandy's Walker Beuhler, was held out due to that sore elbow.

[Nate Colbert]

...Kirby keep an eye on Kyle Funkhouser of Louisville. Absolutely dominant in his initial start (7 IP 1 H 0 R 1 W 12 K) even though the competition may not have been the strongest in Alabama State.

Eyewitness report plus video of that Funkhouser start.

[Nate Colbert]

Kendall Rogers ‏@KendallRogersD1  16m ago
Heard good things about @DBU_Baseball RHP Brandon Koch. Confirmed today he was 96-98 mph opening weekend w/ wipeout 86-88 SL. #mlbdraft

6'1" 185 RHP closer for Dallas Baptist. Junior. DBU has upcoming games against Baylor (including tonight), TCU and TAMU for those who might be in attendance.

Projected 3rd-5th rounder.

[Ebby Calvin]

I could root for a guy named Funkhouser.

[hostros7]

I could root for a guy named Funkhouser.

I assume that he is the son of Marty and grew up a big Dodgers fan.

[Nate Colbert]

Week of 2/20

Upcoming TV games this week with some draft prospect action.

The Rice games versus Arizona on Friday, Saturday and Sunday will all be televised on PAC 12 Network. Draft-eligible soph RHP Jon Duplantier is a potential 1st-rounder but has yet to pitch due to some shoulder soreness. Fellow RHP Kevin McCanna got the Friday start opening weekend against UT. He went in the 22nd round out of The Woodlands in 2012 and is a candidate to go top 10 rounds this time. Other Owls to know for the draft: SS Leon Byrd (25th-rounder in 2012 out of Cy Ranch) and LHP Blake Fox (Saturday starter against UT). The primary draft prospect for the Wildcats is SS Kevin Newman. He’s the first guy in Cape Cod League (CCL) history to win back to back batting titles. He was the 9th-ranked prospect in that league by BA this past summer and is being talked up as a potential 1st-rounder. Another Wildcat to look for: converted OF and leadoff hitter 2B Scott Kingery.

Saturday will see the SEC Network televise a couple of games. Florida State vs Georgia features Noles OF DJ Stewart. Most early draft boards have him pegged as a late 1st-rounder. The other game is Miami vs Florida. The Canes have LHP Andrew Suarez and 3B David Thompson while the Gators squad includes SS Richie Martin, OF Harrison Bader and RHP Eric Hanhold. Suarez, a red-shirt junior, was picked 57th overall by the Nationals in 2014 and obviously is looking to go even higher in the draft in 2015. He’s the Friday starter so you won’t seem him in this game. Thompson has a strong arm (he was recruited to Miami as a QB) but draft reports say he’s headed to 1B in the pros. Struggled with injuries last season but bounced back to be one of the better prospects in the CCL over the summer. Maybe a 3rd-rounder at this stage.

Martin is one of a number of college shortstops that could go in the 1st round. Bader is Florida’s cleanup hitter and is batting a silly .600/.684/1.400 after 4 games. Coming into the season, he was considered top 5 round potential. Ditto for Hanhold (though he may have suffered an injury in the early going).

The Horns take on Minnesota for four games this weekend (including a DH on Saturday) with all games on LHN. The Golden Gophers have a couple of guys to check out in LHP Dalton Sawyer and (to a lesser extent) RHP Lance Thonvold. If opening weekend against the Coogs is any indication, the 6’5” 210 lb Sawyer should start one of the games on Saturday at Disch-Falk. The 6’5” 245 lb Thonvold has struggled with control out of the bullpen.

The UT-Pan American game next Tuesday against UT is also on LHN.

Also next Tuesday the PAC 12 Network will televise UCLA vs Long Beach State. You’re not going to see RHP James Kaprielian or RHP Cody Poteet as they’re the Friday and Sunday starters, respectively. Kaprielian is a possible 1st-rounder while Poteet may be a 2nd-5th round guy. OF Ty Moore has top 10 round potential. LHP Hunter Virant is being used out of the bullpen in the early going and was mentioned previously in the thread. If LBS has significant draft prospects, I don’t know their names. What do expect out of a bunch of Dirtbags?

This is not a comprehensive list of televised games, just some that caught my eye. Also note that a ton of games are being streamed online via ESPN3 and other websites.

[Ron Brand]

Nate Colbert, you are just killing it. Killing it, sir! Thanks!

[Mr. Happy]

Nate Colbert, you are just killing it. Killing it, sir! Thanks!

+1,000 Most appreciated.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Get this man to the front page!

[Jacksonian]

Get this man to the front page!

Front page of what?

[VirtualBob]

Front page of what?

There's a front page?  What's it there for?

[Greg M]

I use it to increase my reflexes by clicking OWA forums before the "Thank you, Astros fans" video pops up.

[Reuben]

I use it to increase my reflexes by clicking OWA forums before the "Thank you, Astros fans" video pops up.

Why? It's barely 14 months old.

[austro]

Why? It's barely 14 months old.

You should see his reflexes.

[Nate Colbert]

John Manuel ‏@johnmanuelba  22 minutes ago
Scouts in NC being informed that #Duke RHP Michael Matuella will not pitch this weekend due to forearm tightness.

ETA:
JJ Cooper @jjcoop36
Matuella hasn't thrown 60+ innings in first two years at Duke. Hasn't pitched in summer. This will add to teams' worries.

[MusicMan]

John Manuel ‏@johnmanuelba  22 minutes ago
Scouts in NC being informed that #Duke RHP Michael Matuella will not pitch this weekend due to forearm tightness.

(/whistles "Farmer in the Dell")

Tommy John's a-comin'.

[Nate Colbert]

Some pitching performances today (and yesterday):

1. Funkhouser bad (4.2 IP, 7H, 7 R, 4 ER, 3 BB, 7 K, 2 HBP versus Arkansas State).
2. Kirby good (5 1/3 IP w/ 1 run allowed on 3 hits and 9 K's against not-so-juggernaut Marist).
3. Bickford very good (5 scoreless innings with 13 K's).*

*40 Ks versus just 6 BBs in 20.1 IP thus far on the year (against JUCO competition of course)

[Nate Colbert]

John Manuel ‏@johnmanuelba  22 minutes ago
Scouts in NC being informed that #Duke RHP Michael Matuella will not pitch this weekend due to forearm tightness.

ETA:
JJ Cooper @jjcoop36
Matuella hasn't thrown 60+ innings in first two years at Duke. Hasn't pitched in summer. This will add to teams' worries.

Duke HC Chris Pollard said after an MRI today:

“[Matuella] looks great. A little bit of inflammation in there, but the ligament looks great—no disruptions,” Pollard said. “(The doctor) didn’t anticipate he’ll have an issue with making his start next week. As soon as he’s symptom-free he’ll be good to get back out there.”

[Nate Colbert]

Some pitching performances today (and yesterday):

1. Funkhouser bad (4.2 IP, 7H, 7 R, 4 ER, 3 BB, 7 K, 2 HBP versus Arkansas State).
2. Kirby good (5 1/3 IP w/ 1 run allowed on 3 hits and 9 K's against not-so-juggernaut Marist).
3. Bickford very good (5 scoreless innings with 13 K's).*

*40 Ks versus just 6 BBs in 20.1 IP thus far on the year (against JUCO competition of course)

Some other pitching performances:

4. Fulmer okay (5 IP, 4 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 2 W, 6 K, 1 WP, 1 HBP against Indiana State)
5. Suarez DNP (strained oblique)

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDaniel ‏@kileymcd  2 hours ago
Buzz growing on Dillon Tate. Flashed good CH, holding 95. Its early but he's in top 5 picks right now, esp w/Matuella & Aiken durability ?'s.

The Gauchos pitcher went 7 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 2 W, 9 K in UCSB's 11-0 win today over the U of Kentucky.

[Lefty]

Very heady play yesterday by Arizona's Newman, walk off steal of home with 2 outs.  Rice pitcher never looked him back, so he took off on his own.

http://pac-12.com/videos/arizonas-kevin-newman-after-walk-win-over-rice

[austro]

Very heady play yesterday by Arizona's Newman, walk off steal of home with 2 outs.  Rice pitcher never looked him back, so he took off on his own.

http://pac-12.com/videos/arizonas-kevin-newman-after-walk-win-over-rice

That 9th inning gave me a heart attack and a stroke. I would not have wanted to be on the same bus with Wayne Graham after that one.

[Nate Colbert]

Some more Dillon Tate video via Kiley McDaniel.

[Nate Colbert]

More on top 5 overall candidate Vandy RHP Walker Buehler and his elbow soreness:

Buehler experienced some elbow soreness when he reported back to Vanderbilt in the preseason, and the Commodores have taken their time building him back to full strength. Buehler threw a side session on Sunday, and felt no ill effects. He will throw in a simulated game situation in the next few days, and could be back on the mound in game action as soon as this weekend. His exact date of return isn’t clear right now, though, and his debut could be delayed until Vanderbilt travels to Southern California for the Dodgertown Classic on March 8.

[Nate Colbert]

Of Pettittes and Biggios:

None of the guys mentioned are 2015 draft prospects and/or draft-eligible but still thought folks might be interested. Notre Dame played this past weekend at the Irish Alamo Invitational against the likes of Incarnate Word (twice), Villanova and Northwestern at Nelson Wolff Stadium. The Golden Domers won all 4 games by a combined 40-6 score. Sophomore 2B Cavan Biggio won ACC Player of the Week honors by going .533/.733/.667 over the weekend. After 2 weekends of play, he's first or tied for first in the ACC in average (.516), hits (16), triples (2), doubles (6) and runs (11) and second or tied for second in total bases (26), on-base percentage (.625) and slugging percentage (.839). Started 52 games as a freshman though he struggled a bit hitting .246/.329/.353.

Senior OF Conor Biggio's ND career has not gone as well. He has a career .230/.359/.267 line in 3+ seasons and has played in only about half the Irish's games over that period.

And as you may have read, Josh Pettitte saw action in his first collegiate game yesterday for Rice.  Gave up a run on 2 hits while unleashing a WP in 1/3 of a frame against Arizona. Pettitte first attended Baylor but underwent TJS without seeing any action and thus he's a RS Fresh,a

[astrosfan76]

The college guys are getting more attention because, well they're playing right now, but BA posted their Pre-season All-America list to give us a glimpse of some of the top prep talent. Notable "names" include Daz Cameron and Ke'Bryan Hayes (son of Charlie). Cameron has the better chance of going high in the draft, though neither may be a good option so our top picks (Hayes could be an option after the 1st round, if still available).

As for guys worth looking at with our top picks, Brendan Rodgers and Kolby Allard are the guys who look like options, at this point. Rodgers has a chance at going before we get a crack, but he's not as much of a slam-dunk as Rodon was last year before the season. Allard has similarities to Aiken, as a young-for-his-class LHP surfer boy from SoCal with similar velocity the summer after his junior season and a good curveball. Whether he takes the step up that Aiken did is yet to be seen, but he does have potential to do so. The one main difference between the two (besides fully-developed ligaments) is stature, as Allard goes by 6'2"/190 (175 in the summer) and Aiken stood a full 2 inches and ~25 pounds larger.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/2015-preseason-high-school-americans/

[Nate Colbert]

Preston Tucker's bro Kyle isn't hurting himself in the early going:

"He has the chance to really hit and drive the ball, fitting the profile of a corner bat," one scouting director said. "He's definitely helped his stock out so far this season, moving up into the top 20 picks or so."

"He hasn't hurt himself, for sure," a second scouting director agreed. "I'd say he could go in the middle of the first round, 11 to 20 would be my best guess as of now."

[Nate Colbert]

Matuella vs Tate, with more background on the latter.

[Nate Colbert]

The DII schedule got cranked up this week. Perhaps the two highest ratest prospects at that level pitch just 15 miles away from one another, RHP Cody Ponce at Cal Poly Pomona and Azusa Pacific's RHP Josh Staumont.

Ponce is 6'6"/240 and had an outstanding season this past summer in the Cape Cod League (CCL). He's projected as a 1st-rounder on a number of early draft boards (ranked #20 at MLB.com, #11 at FG, #24 at BA).

Per a Kiley McDaniel tweet, Ponce to miss several weeks with shoulder fatigue.

[austro]

This actually belongs in the 2009 draft thread, but whatever.

I was just answering some baseball questions for my wife, and the conversation drifted to Mike Trout and the fact that he was drafted relatively late. I couldn't remember the exact details, so I went back to baseball-reference.com to look them up. He was picked 25th: 24 teams (including the Astros, who picked the inimitable Gio Miers at #21) decided that there was somebody better than Trout. The only team who was close to right was the Nats, who took Strasburg with the #1. Makes one wonder what Trout's negatives were that caused people to pass. He was a high-schooler, so maybe he just blossomed late.

On the plus side, the Angels were actually using a Yankee pick (compensation for Texeira), so at least there's that.

[astrosfan76]

This actually belongs in the 2009 draft thread, but whatever.

I was just answering some baseball questions for my wife, and the conversation drifted to Mike Trout and the fact that he was drafted relatively late. I couldn't remember the exact details, so I went back to baseball-reference.com to look them up. He was picked 25th: 24 teams (including the Astros, who picked the inimitable Gio Miers at #21) decided that there was somebody better than Trout. The only team who was close to right was the Nats, who took Strasburg with the #1. Makes one wonder what Trout's negatives were that caused people to pass. He was a high-schooler, so maybe he just blossomed late.

On the plus side, the Angels were actually using a Yankee pick (compensation for Texeira), so at least there's that.

The big thing with Trout was that he was from Jersey, so he was a cold-weather player. He didn't have the experience that others had, so he was more of a wild-card. Doesn't mean they didn't think he was talented (though, no one thought he would be "this" good), but they had less to go by.

[chuck]

The big thing with Trout was that he was from Jersey, so he was a cold-weather player. He didn't have the experience that others had, so he was more of a wild-card. Doesn't mean they didn't think he was talented (though, no one thought he would be "this" good), but they had less to go by.

You can't figure out that a guy can play by watching him for five months a year? You need ten before you're really sure? I'm glad Correa's from Puerto Rico. Who knows what calamity might have befallen that year's draft if he were from somewhere north of the Tropic of Cancer.

[Reuben]

You can't figure out that a guy can play by watching him for five months a year? You need ten before you're really sure? I'm glad Correa's from Puerto Rico. Who knows what calamity might have befallen that year's draft if he were from somewhere north of the Tropic of Cancer.

less experienced = he was less developed as a player, I think. He was also really young for his class (as was Correa). Those two factors can often lead to a kid breaking out big once he gets into pro ball or college.

[astrosfan76]

You can't figure out that a guy can play by watching him for five months a year? You need ten before you're really sure? I'm glad Correa's from Puerto Rico. Who knows what calamity might have befallen that year's draft if he were from somewhere north of the Tropic of Cancer.

From a Rosenthal article from last year (you can find similar recollections around the web):

Bane, who is now a major-league scout with the Tigers, says a number of teams simply could not believe that a kid as good as Trout could be from Jersey.

Trout, coming out of Millville H.S., wasn’t exactly an unknown — Jeff Trout recalls the Athletics’ Billy Beane, Giants’ Brian Sabean and high-ranking officials from virtually every other team coming to see his son.

Still, because kids in the northeast don’t play as much baseball as kids in Florida, California and other states in warmer climates, they usually are considered greater risks.

“Mike did the Area Code Games, did a few of the big tryouts and showcases, but he came on the scene late,” Jeff Trout says.

http://www.foxsports.com/mlb/story/how-los-angeles-angels-hooked-rookie-phenom-mike-trout-in-mlb-draft-051212

[Mr. Happy]

A scout told me that he saw Trout play in high school and that he was the most toolsy player he had ever seen in all of his years in baseball, but the club did nothing with it, probably because they didn't believe that a kid from Joisey can be that good.

[geezerdonk]

Sounds fishy to me.

[Nate Colbert]

Week of 2/27

8 games on TV this week involving draft prospects.

Three of the games involve TCU. The Horned Frogs play Cal Poly in weekend action with the Friday and Sunday tilts both on FSSW+. Senior RHP Preston Morrison should take the mound on Friday. His FB may never go much beyond the mid 80’s but he still manages to be effective. He’s thrown 16 scoreless innings to start the season, including a CG 3-hitter against then 8th-ranked Arizona State. BA has him listed as the 6th-best draft prospect among college seniors (just behind UT’s Parker French). How that translates into draft rounds is a bit of a mystery. You would think someone might pop him in the 1st 10 rounds but given the fact he wasn’t drafted out of HS nor as a junior that would be anything but a sure bet. If the current rotation holds, LHP Alex Young should go Sunday. BA has him ranked #21 among college juniors so perhaps someone the Astros would look at as far as picks #37 or #46.

This Cal Poly is the D1 San Luis Obispo variety, not the D2 Pomona folks, and it’s a good program with the Mustangs having been to regionals three times in the last six years. I’ve seen three of their guys mentioned as draft possibilities: 2B Mark Mathias, OF Zack Zehner and 1B Brian Mundell. Mathias hit .386/.455/.490 last season for the Mustangs. He had offseason shoulder surgery and has only played in one game thus far (this past Tuesday) as a DH. The injury to the labrum in his right shoulder occurred over the summer while playing for USA Baseball’s Collegiate National Team. BA has him at #34 on that college junior list so if folks are convinced he’s healthy then he may be a 2nd or 3rd rounder.

Zehner is a senior who went in the 7th round to the Blue Jays last year (Toronto also tried to sign him as an undrafted free agent the year before as a JUCO sophomore). 6’4” 215 lbs, he’s off to a .323/.417/.516 start this year after hitting .316/.374/.443 last year. BA has him at #7 (just after French and Morrison) among college senior draft prospects. Look to see if the power finally shows for this guy. And finally Mundell--he’s definitely not the same caliber as the first two guys mentioned. The junior did show some promise over the summer in the wood bat Northwoods League but still needs to do even more with the stick. A whole lot more.

The best matchup of the TV games is Rice vs TCU on Tuesday. Like the other two televised Horned Frog games, it’s on FSSW+. If your mid-week starter is someone of the caliber of RHP Mitchell Traver, then you know your pitching staff is special. If the name sounds familiar, here’s why: he was picked by the Astros in the 39th round in 2012 out of Houston Christian High. He was considered top 3 round talent coming out of HS but a diagnosis of thoracic outlet syndrome (and subsequent surgery for it) dropped him all the way down to the next to last round. On top of all that, he then had to have TJS. So in 2013 and 2014, he managed to pitch all of a third of an inning for TCU.

Despite the surgical sojourn, the 6’7” 255 lb Traver just might be all the way back. It began this summer with 29 solid innings of work in the Northwoods League that caused BA to rank him the 9th-best prospect there. And he’s kicked ass in his first 2 starts for TCU this season: 15 scoreless innings with 17 K’s and just 1 walk. The Owls game will be a step up in competition (he faced UTA and Texas Southern in those other games) so I’m really looking forward to seeing what he can do. As far as draft round, you’ve really got to wait and see how he performs the rest of the season to see how high he might go. The injury history and lack of innings makes him a bit of a crapshoot. Luhnow & co. presumably know him better than anyone at this stage, though, so another selection by his hometown team certainly wouldn’t be a surprise.

A couple of SEC Network games are on the docket. Arizona takes on Mississippi State on Saturday while rivals Clemson and South Carolina duke it out Sunday. The Wildcats DP duo of SS Kevin Newman (potential 1st-rounder) and 2B Scott Kingery were mentioned previously. The Bulldogs are a ranked team but apparently don’t have a lot of draft-eligible talent. Senior RHP Trevor Fitts is the best of the bunch it seems. He’s the closer (after starting last season) and has three saves in three appearances. As far as the Palmetto State matchup, look for Tigers OF Steven Duggar (possible 2nd-rounder). Don’t look for fellow Clemsonite LHP Zack Erwin (#47 on the BA college juniors list). He’s their Saturday starter so unless they shift their rotation won’t be in Sunday’s game. The Gamecocks, like Miss. State, are a ranked team with not much in terms of 2015 draft talent. Senior 1B Kyle Martin is the only name I’ve seen mentioned thus far--he was a 20th round pick a year ago by the Angels.

All three weekend games between the Longhorns and San Diego are being televised on LHN. And no this is not San Diego State. Nor is it UC-San Diego. This would be the Univ of San Diego Toreros. One guy on that squad to look for--SS Kyle Holder. BA has him ranked #44 in their college junior rankings of top draft prospects.

[Nate Colbert]

Aiken will join Nix on the IMG Academy team, per a K Law tweet.

[juliogotay]

Aiken will join Nix on the IMG Academy team, per a K Law tweet.

They will be able to tell the other kids about what a bunch of jerks the Astros are.

[chuck]

A scout told me that he saw Trout play in high school and that he was the most toolsy player he had ever seen in all of his years in baseball, but the club did nothing with it, probably because they didn't believe that a kid from Joisey can be that good.

This is exactly what I'm talking about. If you can't tell that a Mike Trout has the potential to be a really good player in the six or seven short months that New Jersey offers for baseball then you should probably find some other line of work. If an organization elects not to believe he can play or assigns him a prohibitively high risk factor because, gosh, he only plays half the year, then that organization deserves all of the misery that it buys itself.

Bryce Harper is from Las Vegas. They play baseball all year there. Was seeing Bryce Harper hit a baseball 100,000 times really that much more informative than seeing Mike Trout hit a baseball 65,000 times or whatever? These teams should open training academies in Guyana or Equatorial Guinea, maybe then they'd be happy.

[chuck]

By the way, I love that austro's wife is peppering him with baseball questions. There's quite a bit to recommend sra chuck but an insatiable thirst for sports knowledge isn't tremendously high on that list.

[Reuben]

Maybe a dumbass bias against cold-weather kids can explain why some teams passed on Trout, but I find it hard to believe that was the reason all 23 or 4 did (God knows Bobby Heck loved his Illinois pitchers). I'm pretty sure it was at least partly due to his being behind other top HS kids, developmentally, at the time, and teams failing to realize he would blossom the way he did once he had another year of solid baseball playing under his belt.

Plus, I bet he didn't get seen nearly as much as you think he did - maybe the Angels caught every game of his Senior year, maybe not, but I doubt many teams did; as his dad mentioned, he got a little more exposure when he did the Area Code games. 

[Lefty]

Saw that the West Virginia coach, apparently among others, is pushing hard to move the start of the season back to somewhere around April.  Paraphrasing "What the hell are we doing playing baseball in February?"

[roadrunner]

Saw that the West Virginia coach, apparently among others, is pushing hard to move the start of the season back to somewhere around April.  Paraphrasing "What the hell are we doing playing baseball in February?"

I imagine the "college" part of college baseball has something to do with it.

Yes, I realize the CWS is in June.

[Nate Colbert]

MLB.com says $17,370,400 using a 9% estimated increase as opposed to BA's 13%.

The final official number released by MLB: $17,289,200.

[austro]

Saw that the West Virginia coach, apparently among others, is pushing hard to move the start of the season back to somewhere around April.  Paraphrasing "What the hell are we doing playing baseball in February?"

Oh, I'm sure everybody will be thrilled when the ML clubs start telling the college coaches to limit the pitch counts of their draft picks come July and August. Or is the NCAA going to convince MLB to move their draft?

[Nate Colbert]

Week of 2/27

8 games on TV this week involving draft prospects.

Three of the games involve TCU. The Horned Frogs play Cal Poly in weekend action with the Friday and Sunday tilts both on FSSW+.

Looks like tonight's game has been cancelled.

[Nate Colbert]

Pitching performances & other news for the weekend:

Potential top 5 picks

• Nathan Kirby--6 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 4 W, 10 K today versus Baggy's old school (Hartford)
• Walker Buehler--supposedly will be used out of the Vandy's bullpen this weekend with an eye towards starting next weekend as he works through that elbow soreness.
• Michael Matuella--was scheduled to start today vs Rider but game cancelled. Will start 2nd game of DH tomorrow.
• Dillon Tate--no hit 20th-ranked Oregon over the 1st 5 innings. Gives up 1st run of season in 6th and final line is 7.1 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 4 W, 8 K.*

*More on Tate's outing:

Frankie Piliere ‏@FPilierePG  11m ago
Another start, more dominant stuff from Dillon Tate. 94-97 mph FB, typical plus SL and showing the change. Reportedly 70+ scouts there.

Others of interest

• Carson Fulmer--6 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 3 W, 11 K versus Illinois State.
• Mac Marshall--5 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 0 W, 7 K versus Grand Rapids CC. Nice to see the walks down as that had been a problem in his 4 previous starts for Chipola: 9 BBs in 16 IP.

[Nate Colbert]

Pitching performances & other news (further updates):

Potential top 5 picks

• Nathan Kirby--6 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 4 W, 10 K today versus Baggy's old school (Hartford)
• Walker Buehler--supposedly will be used out of the Vandy's bullpen this weekend with an eye towards starting next weekend as he works through that elbow soreness.
• Michael Matuella--was scheduled to start today vs Rider but game cancelled. Will start 2nd game of DH tomorrow.
• Dillon Tate--no hit 20th-ranked Oregon over the 1st 5 innings. Gives up 1st run of season in 6th and final line is 7.1 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 4 W, 8 K.*

*More on Tate's outing:

Frankie Piliere ‏@FPilierePG  11m ago
Another start, more dominant stuff from Dillon Tate. 94-97 mph FB, typical plus SL and showing the change. Reportedly 70+ scouts there.

Others of interest

• Carson Fulmer--6 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 3 W, 11 K versus Illinois State.
• Mac Marshall--5 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 0 W, 7 K versus Grand Rapids CC. Nice to see the walks down as that had been a problem in his 4 previous starts for Chipola: 9 BBs in 16 IP.
• Jon Duplantier--Kendall Rogers of D1Baseball.com reports that the draft-eligible soph and potential 1st-rounder may be out for the season. Previously he was said to be suffering from some shoulder soreness.

[Nate Colbert]

I wrote about Mitchell Traver above. This is some further info on his most recent start this past Wednesday:

He worked in the 91-93 mph range with his fastball and topped at 95, just as he had last week, with a slider that sat in the mid-80s. As impressive as those numbers were here's a set that's better: Of the 83 pitches he threw, 60 of them were for strikes and Traver never found himself in a 2-0 count.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances & other news (including Saturday updates):

Potential top 5 picks

• Nathan Kirby--6 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 4 W, 10 K today versus Baggy's old school (Hartford)
• Walker Buehler--supposedly will be used out of the Vandy's bullpen this weekend with an eye towards starting next weekend as he works through that elbow soreness.
• Michael Matuella--was scheduled to start today vs Rider but game cancelled. Perhaps will start 2nd game of DH Sunday.
• Dillon Tate--no hit 20th-ranked Oregon over the 1st 5 innings. Gives up 1st run of season in 6th and final line is 7.1 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 4 W, 8 K.*
• Kyle Funkhouser--bounces back with a decent 7 IP, 7 H, 0 ER, 2 W, 7 K outing against Xavier.

*More on Tate's outing:

Frankie Piliere ‏@FPilierePG  11m ago
Another start, more dominant stuff from Dillon Tate. 94-97 mph FB, typical plus SL and showing the change. Reportedly 70+ scouts there.

Others of interest

• Carson Fulmer--6 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 3 W, 11 K versus Illinois State.
• Mac Marshall--5 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 0 W, 7 K versus Grand Rapids CC. Nice to see the walks down as that had been a problem in his 4 previous starts for Chipola: 9 BBs in 16 IP.
• Jon Duplantier--Kendall Rogers of D1Baseball.com reports that the draft-eligible soph and potential 1st-rounder may be out for the season. Previously he was said to be suffering from some shoulder soreness.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances & other news (including Sunday updates):

Potential top 5 picks

• Nathan Kirby--6 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 4 W, 10 K Friday versus Baggy's old school (Hartford).
• Walker Buehler--using him out of Vandy's bullpen this weekend may have been the plan but that was not the reality as he continues to be held out. We'll see whether he finally makes his 2015 debut next weekend where weather should not be a factor as the Dores head to LA for a tourney with games against UCLA, USC and TCU.
• Michael Matuella--apparently was on a 30 pitch limit so it was planned, but throws 23 pitches and leaves after just 1 inning in Sunday's game vs Rider. Gave up 2 hits while striking out one. Scheduled to start on Friday versus North Carolina in Chapel Hill.
• Dillon Tate--no hit 20th-ranked Oregon over the 1st 5 innings Friday. Gives up 1st run of season in 6th and final line is 7.1 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 4 W, 8 K.*
• Kyle Funkhouser--bounces back with a decent 7 IP, 7 H, 0 ER, 2 W, 7 K outing on Saturday against Xavier.

*More on Tate's outing:

Frankie Piliere ‏@FPilierePG  
Another start, more dominant stuff from Dillon Tate. 94-97 mph FB, typical plus SL and showing the change. Reportedly 70+ scouts there.

Others of interest

• Carson Fulmer--6 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 3 W, 11 K versus Illinois State.
• Mac Marshall--5 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 0 W, 7 K versus Grand Rapids CC. Nice to see the walks down as that had been a problem in his 4 previous starts for Chipola: 9 BBs in 16 IP.
• Jon Duplantier--Kendall Rogers of D1Baseball.com reported via twitter that the draft-eligible soph and potential 1st-rounder may be out for the season. Previously he was said to be suffering from some shoulder soreness.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

I'm starting to think Tate's going 1-1, and won't be around when we pick.  I hope I'm wrong.

[Nate Colbert]

Vandy Baseball ‏@VandyBaseball  29 minutes ago
Walker Buehler will make his season debut tomorrow against Evansville. He’ll get the start at 4 p.m.

[Nate Colbert]

Mid-week performances:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Walker Buehler--makes season debut for the Dores with no hits allowed against U of Evansville in 2 IP w/2 walks and 2 strikeouts.
• Dansby Swanson--the Vandy SS with a 3-run shot in six trips to the plate tonight vs Evansville. Came in hitting .370/.434/.565 with 6 walks and 5 strikeouts in 46 ABs.

Others of Interest

• Phil Bickford--4 runs on 5 hits and 3 walks while K'ing 6 in 4 IP against Colorado NorthWestern CC.*
• Mitchell Traver--retired the Rice Owls 1-2-3 in his only inning of work. I'm guessing rain delay, having to warm up twice, injury history, able to use him this weekend as TCU heads to a tourney in LA, wanting to give other pitchers work (Horned Frogs hadn't played in a week), etc. all played a part in the short stint.

*Bickford's performance was this past weekend.

[Nate Colbert]

Week of 3/6

An LA rivalry, a border rivalry and the Houston College Classic (HCC) are all on display over the next week.

USC takes on UCLA on the PAC 12 Network on Sunday. A pair of Trojans that might be the right fit for some teams are the two Kyles. RHP Kyle Davis is the closer while LHP Kyle Twomey is the Saturday starter and thus you’re not gonna seem him in this game. Twomey is the better of the two and looks like 2nd-5th round talent while Davis might go in the top 10 rounds.

Previously mentioned four draft-eligibles for the Bruins: Kaprielian, Poteet, Moore and Virant. Kaprielian is the Friday starter so no go there but Poteet is the Sunday guy so you will most likely see him. Also, there are three UCLA seniors who likely will go at some point in the draft: closer RHP David Berg, LHP Grant Watson and 3B Chris Keck. Berg will be looking to improve on his 17th round selection by the Rangers last year. Watson and Keck probably won’t be picked until the latter stages of the draft. Keck has hit 5 longballs in the first 12 games of the season. Watson is the Saturday starter.

It’s Cats versus Cats as Cincinnati takes on Kentucky next Tuesday on the SEC Network. Might be your only televised opportunity to see INF/OF Ian Happ of the Bearcats. He’s one of the better college hitters out there (including a ridiculous .500/.604/.842 over the first 10 games this season) and definitely upper half of 1st round potential. The Wildcats RHP Kyle Cody is another possible 1st-rounder but as a weekend starter you won’t get a look at him.

The good news is that all of the HCC games will be televised on RSSW. The bad news is some will be shown on a tape-delayed basis. So broadcast dates stretch from Friday all the way to next Wednesday even though the games will actually be played Fri-Sun. Among the six-team field: Houston, LSU and Texas A&M.

You probably already know most of the draft names for the Coogs. RHP Jake Lemoine is at the top and a likely 1st-rounder. Fellow juniors C Ian Rice (JUCO transfer from Chipola), RHP Patrick Weigel, OF Kyle Survance (Jersey Village) and INF/DH Justin Montemayor (Anderson High out of Austin) should see some draft play as should senior RHP Aaron Garza (Galveston Ball). Rice was taken in the 21st round by the Red Sox last year while Weigel and Garza were Milwaukee picks--Weigel in the 22nd and Garza in the 29th. Weigel just went five innings on Tuesday against HBU so his availability for the weekend seems unlikely at best. Haven’t seen 1B Chris Iriart on any draft lists but he’s off to a strong start (.348/.474/.587) thru 13 games which if he keeps it up will attract some attention come June.

LSU has its usual strong contingent of draft talent with SS Alex Bregman, OF Andrew Stevenson and OF Mark Laird the top names this time round. Bregman is a 1st round talent though likely plays another position in the pros. Stevenson might be the higher rated of the two outfielders but either one could slip into the 1st 5 rounds. Senior C Kade Scivicque is off to a blistering .448/.486/.862 start and will get popped as well.

The three top draft names for the Aggies seem to be LHP A.J. Minter, RHP Grayson Long and OF Logan Taylor. Minter is another guy who’s suffered from thoracic outlet syndrome which has held him back at A&M. Predicting where he or the other two will get drafted is mostly a coin flip. I’ll swag it and say Minter goes in the 1st 5 rounds (though he may be trending higher) with Long and Taylor going in rounds 6-10. BTW, Taylor is mashing his way to the tune of  .405/.488/.892 in A&M’s 13-0 start while Minter has whiffed 23 in 16 IP with an 0.56 ERA. Seniors SS Blake Allemand and 1B Logan Nottebrok will get popped (late) by someone.

The usual yada-yada: not meant to be a complete list of all televised games, many more games are streamed online, etc etc etc.

[Nate Colbert]

From today's Keith Law chat:

Andy (Madison, WI): Will Aiken consent to be redrafted? If he doesn't, slot might be less than the 5 million he turned down from the Astros.

Klaw: No, he won't, nor will Nix. I don't think that guarantees he'll get less, though; someone could go over slot for him.

I had been curious whether the settlement between Jacob Nix and the Astros would have allowed them to draft him again. But apparently the answer is no if Law's info is correct.

[Nate Colbert]

Shocker: Astros have scouted Kyle Tucker.

[Nate Colbert]

Drellich visited IMG Academy and has an article on Nix and Aiken, although it doesn't add anything to what's already known.

And if you missed the posting over in the TZ thread, Heyman reported earlier today that the settlement with Nix was for "significantly less" than the $1.5MM bonus.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances & other news:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate--facing Sacramento State, tosses 7 scoreless with 10 strikeouts.
• Dansby Swanson--against Bruin ace James Kaprielian (see below) went 1-3, overall in the game was 2-5 with a SB.

Others of Interest*

• Carson Fulmer--battled control with just 56 strikes in 112 pitches against UCLA in the Dodgertown Classic tourney but held a good-hitting Bruin squad (averaging 8.8 runs per game coming in) scoreless over 6 1/3 innings.
• James Kaprielian--dueling Fulmer, showed brilliant flashes by striking out 7 of 8 Dores at one point. Overall: 5.1 IP, 8 H, 4 R, 3 ER, 1 W 9 K.
• Hunter Virant--faced two batters in relief of Kaprielian, giving up a double and a plunk before giving way to the next UCLA reliever.
• Phil Bickford--no hit Utah State Eastern over 6 frames with 15 whiffs and just 1 walk. K'd 61 versus 10 W in 30 IP on the season.
• Mitchell Traver--in another of the Dodgertown Classic games, put up decent numbers (5.2 IP, 6 H, 3 R, 2 ER, 1 W, 7 K) against #25 USC. Threw 80 pitches, 56 for strikes. The earned runs (the first allowed this season by Traver) were inherited runners the following TCU pitcher allowed to score.
• A.J. Minter--the Aggie lefty allowed 0 ER on 4 hits while striking out 6 and walking 1 in the HCC game vs Nebraska. Reports said he was sitting 92-94 (occasionally touching 95) on the FB. 70 pitches, 50 for strikes. On the year, 29:9 K to walk ratio in 21 IP.
• Josh Staumont--the Azusa Pacific RHP per reports hit triple digits on the gun against Point Loma, giving up no hits over 6.2 frames with 14 punchouts and 4 walks/1 HBP/2 WPs.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, etc.

[Nate Colbert]

Video on Horned Frogs righty Mitchell Traver.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances (including Saturday updates):

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate--facing Sacramento State, tosses 7 scoreless with 10 strikeouts.
• Michael Matuella--on a 40 pitch count limit, went three scoreless innings and gave up one hit and one walk and no k's against NC Tar Heels.
• Kyle Funkhouser--opens up ACC play by struggling against Miami Hurricanes (5.1 IP, 8 H, 5 ER, 4 W, 2 K plus a couple of HBPs).
• Nathan Kirby--his ACC opener went better: strikes out 13 Pitt Panthers in 7 innings, allowing one run on 7 hits.
• Dansby Swanson--against Bruin ace James Kaprielian (see below) went 1-3, overall in the game was 2-5 with a SB.

Others of Interest*

• Carson Fulmer--battled control with just 56 strikes in 112 pitches against UCLA in the Dodgertown Classic tourney but held a good-hitting Bruin squad (averaging 8.8 runs per game coming in) scoreless over 6 1/3 innings.
• James Kaprielian--dueling Fulmer, showed brilliant flashes by striking out 7 of 8 Dores at one point. Overall: 5.1 IP, 8 H, 4 R, 3 ER, 1 W 9 K.
• Hunter Virant--faced two batters in relief of Kaprielian, giving up a double and a plunk before giving way to the next UCLA reliever.
• Phil Bickford--no hit Utah State Eastern over 6 frames with 15 whiffs and just 1 walk. K'd 61 versus 10 W in 30 IP on the season.
• Mitchell Traver--in another of the Dodgertown Classic games, put up decent numbers (5.2 IP, 6 H, 3 R, 2 ER, 1 W, 7 K) against #25 USC. Threw 80 pitches, 56 for strikes. The earned runs (the first allowed this season by Traver) were inherited runners the following TCU pitcher allowed to score.
• A.J. Minter--the Aggie lefty allowed 0 ER on 4 hits while striking out 6 and walking 1 in the HCC game vs Nebraska. Reports said he was sitting 92-94 (occasionally touching 95) on the FB. 70 pitches, 50 for strikes. On the year, 29:9 K to walk ratio in 21 IP.
• Josh Staumont--the Azusa Pacific RHP per reports hit triple digits on the gun against Point Loma, giving up no hits over 6.2 frames with 14 punchouts and 4 walks/1 HBP/2 WPs.
• Mac Marshall--nice outing (5 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 8 K) for the lefty against #8 ranked State College of Florida. Has 37 strikeouts vs 10 walks in 26 IP thus far in 2015.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, etc.

[astrosfan76]

@FPilierePG: Alex Bregman is a shortstop long term in my opinion. I know there is some split on that issue but I'm convinced

Don't know if he'll be a strong option with either of our top two picks, but if others start to share Pilliere's sentiment, he could go well before our next picks. He has a strong stat line, so far, at .328/.391/.557 with 4 walks against 2 Ks in 61 at-bats. He's also 10-11 in steals in those 15 games. He had a down year as a sophomore, but after a tremendous freshman season, was looked at as a very-early contender for 1-1.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances & news (including Sunday updates):

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate--facing Sacramento State, tosses 7 scoreless with 10 strikeouts.
• Michael Matuella--on a 40 pitch count limit, went three scoreless innings and gave up one hit and one walk and no k's against NC Tar Heels.
• Kyle Funkhouser--opens up ACC play by struggling against Miami Hurricanes (5.1 IP, 8 H, 5 ER, 4 W, 2 K plus a couple of HBPs).
• Nathan Kirby--his ACC opener went better: strikes out 13 Pitt Panthers in 7 innings, allowing one run on 7 hits.
• Walker Buehler--against TCU today: 4 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 5 K. 67P, 43 S. Touched 95. Mostly 92-94. Big 11-to-5 curve—two swinging Ks in the dirt.[per tweet from BA's Michael Lananna]
• Dansby Swanson--against Bruin ace James Kaprielian (see below) went 1-3, overall in the game was 2-5 with a SB. Including the other games against USC and TCU, the Vandy SS went 5-13 on the weekend with a walk and 3 SBs. Defensively, Aaron Fitt of D1baseball.com via tweet liked what he saw: "Dansby Swanson will be a big league shortstop. A good one. Makes everything look easy; charges balls well, range to both sides, accurate arm."

Others of Interest*

• Carson Fulmer--battled control with just 56 strikes in 112 pitches against UCLA in the Dodgertown Classic tourney but held a good-hitting Bruin squad (averaging 8.8 runs per game coming in) scoreless over 6 1/3 innings.
• James Kaprielian--dueling Fulmer, showed brilliant flashes by striking out 7 of 8 Dores at one point. Overall: 5.1 IP, 8 H, 4 R, 3 ER, 1 W 9 K.
• Hunter Virant--faced two batters in relief of Kaprielian, giving up a double and a plunk before giving way to the next UCLA reliever.
• Phil Bickford--no hit Utah State Eastern over 6 frames with 15 whiffs and just 1 walk. K'd 61 versus 10 W in 30 IP on the season.
• Mitchell Traver--in another of the Dodgertown Classic games, put up decent numbers (5.2 IP, 6 H, 3 R, 2 ER, 1 W, 7 K) against #25 USC. Threw 80 pitches, 56 for strikes. The earned runs (the first allowed this season by Traver) were inherited runners the following TCU pitcher allowed to score.
• A.J. Minter--the Aggie lefty allowed 0 ER on 4 hits while striking out 6 and walking 1 in the HCC game vs Nebraska. Reports said he was sitting 92-94 (occasionally touching 95) on the FB. 70 pitches, 50 for strikes. On the year, 29:9 K to walk ratio in 21 IP.
• Josh Staumont--the Azusa Pacific RHP per reports hit triple digits on the gun against Point Loma, giving up no hits over 6.2 frames with 14 punchouts and 4 walks/1 HBP/2 WPs.
• Mac Marshall--nice outing (5 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 8 K) for the lefty against #8 ranked State College of Florida. Has 37 strikeouts vs 10 walks in 26 IP thus far in 2015.
• Jose Vizcaino, Jr--the Santa Clara SS is out with a hand injury and did not play in the Broncos' series this weekend against Kansas State.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, etc.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Was at the UH-A&M game on Saturday.  Grayson Long struck out 10 in seven innings.  Excellent movement on his pitches, able to change speeds effectively.  Lots of swing and miss. 

Also, Hunter Melton (3B) crushed a homer onto the LF concourse (above the Community Leaders board) at MMPUS.  Serious power.

[Nate Colbert]

From a look at some of the draft prospects in this past weekend's Dodgertown Classic:

First things first, Swanson is a no-doubt shortstop. The footwork is technically sound, and the body control in motion is strong enough to allow him to deliver throws with easy plus velocity and accuracy from all over the left side. I saw an above-average Major League shortstop in the making here, with relatively low risk of a future position change.

The whole package is highly enticing, and word ‘round the campfire is that he’ll be open to an under-slot deal, which if true would put him squarely in the running for a top-five selection in June.

From a writer I'm only slightly familiar with (and who makes a slight brain fart in the article on Walker Buehler) so take with the requisite modicum of salt.

[Reuben]

Still very early, of course, but between Tate, Kirby, and perhaps Swanson, I'm liking the Astros' chances of landing a very good college player who can help them sooner than later. Even if Matuella continues to seem too fragile for a top-5 pick.

[Nate Colbert]

Kendall Rogers @KendallRogersD1  ·  4 hours ago
I'm told @Aggie_Baseball LHP AJ Minter is experiencing tenderness, will have an MRI this week.

[Nate Colbert]

Here's a profile of previously-discussed U of Cincinnati's Ian Happ, one of the better college hitters in the draft. Unfortunately that televised game tonight versus Kentucky has been cancelled.

[Mike S.]

From a look at some of the draft prospects in this past weekend's Dodgertown Classic:

From a writer I'm only slightly familiar with (and who makes a slight brain fart in the article on Walker Buehler) so take with the requisite modicum of salt.

Further reading on Swanson (WARNING: phillies related content to follow)

http://www.thegoodphight.com/2015/3/9/8119019/2015-phillies-draft-preview-dansby-swanson-2b-ss

[Duman]

Next week, I will get to see a kid that is getting a fair amount of buzz in this area.  Trey Cabbage is a 3rd baseman who is committed to Tennessee.  According to two different sources, two Red Sox scouts were at his games this week.  My son's team plays them Monday & Tuesday of next week.  Any draft geeks heard about him? 

[Nate Colbert]

Next week, I will get to see a kid that is getting a fair amount of buzz in this area.  Trey Cabbage is a 3rd baseman who is committed to Tennessee.  According to two different sources, two Red Sox scouts were at his games this week.  My son's team plays them Monday & Tuesday of next week.  Any draft geeks heard about him? 

Well he certainly is athletic.

You may have already seen it but PG did have this blurb on him:

Although he may not be widely known, watch for Grainger's (Tenn.) Trey Cabbage, a sweet-swinging lefthanded bat and University of Tennessee commit. Cabbage proved to be one of the more consistent hitters throughout the summer, and with an athletic 6-foot-3 frame, the third baseman frequently showed the ability shoot either gap or just simply deposit the ball over the fence.

[Reuben]

Hopefully he hasn't let all his success go to his head. If so, he may need to turn over a new leaf.

[Nate Colbert]

Week of 3/12

The weekend gets started Thursday as Pepperdine takes on BYU (the BYUers don’t play on Sundays of course so all their weekend series run Thur-Sat). The Waves and Cougars also play Fri and Sat with all games on MormonVision (aka BYU TV). RHP Kolton Mahoney is the guy for BYU. He’s their Friday Thursday night starter and is looking to improve on his 23rd round selection last year by the Brewers. RHP Jackson McClelland and 2B Hutton Moyer is the best of a weak draft-eligible bunch for Pepperdine. McClelland is the Waves’ Friday dude and looks good in the uni at 6’5’’ 220 lbs but that doesn’t translate much to whiffs--just 49 in 82 IP last year and only 16 in 29 frames this season. I seem to recall Moyer’s dad Jamie as having a cup ‘o coffee in the bigs.

SEC conference play kicks off this weekend (as it does for most conferences except the ACC which started last weekend) with three of the games on the SEC Network. Ole Miss vs LSU is on both Saturday and Sunday while Auburn vs Texas A&M is Saturday only. RHP Trey Wingenter is the main draft-eligible name for Auburn. He was a 36th-rounder by the Mariners out of HS back in 2012. Appears the Tigers weekend rotation isn’t quite set so I can’t tell you whether Wingenter will be going on Saturday or not.

One PAC-12 game on tap: Oregon State vs Arizona State on Saturday. Beavers RHP Andrew Moore is off to a terrific start with 31:3 K vs W ratio over his first 30 IP but you won’t see him as he’s the Friday guy. LHP Brett Lilek of the Sun Devils has top 5 round potential but has had a rough beginning to the season and may have been moved out of his Friday slot (probably temporary). RHP Ryan Burr is the ASU closer. He went in the 33rd round to the Rangers out of HS in 2012 but has said teams offered to take him in the 3rd round back then but he held fast to his college commit (Lilek is also said to have turned down 3rd round money out of HS). It’s unlikely he goes that high this time round unless he’s finally ironed out his control problems. He’s whizzing along this year with 21 Ks against 4 Ws in his first 10 innings but in 2014 he walked 38 in 46 IP after an aborted attempt to make him a starter.

Sun Devils LHP Ryan Kellogg is an Ontario kid (the north of the border version) who spurned a $250K bonus from the hometown Blue Jays as a 12th round pick in that same 2012 draft. Like Burr, his 2014 wasn’t great. He’s been slightly improved in 2015. But judge for yourself: he is the Saturday starter. RHP/OF David Graybill has seen limited action at the plate and none thus far on the mound (other than in an exhibition game against the D-Backs). He went in the 31st round to the Dodgers in 2012 out of HS and in 2014 to the Yankees in the 32nd round. Cool fact: both his dad and granddad both played baseball at ASU.

Baylor vs TCU is televised on Sat and Sun on FSSW+/FSSW. All three games of the West Virginia/Texas series are on LHN.

SOS disclaimer: not meant to be a complete list of all televised games, many more games are streamed online, blah blah blah.

[moriartp]

Hopefully he hasn't let all his success go to his head. If so, he may need to turn over a new leaf.

Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhh I get it now.

[Nate Colbert]

‏@keithlaw  19 minutes ago
Lot of heat in the house for San Clemente LHP Kolby Allard's start tonight, including [D-Backs Senior VP of Baseball Operations] De Jon Watson and at least three scouting directors.

[Nate Colbert]

More from Law on Allard (paywall article but this is from the tease):

I didn't spot anyone from Houston, who pick both second and fifth in this year's draft, at the game, but know they were out in force at shortstop Brendan Rodgers' game in Florida [last] night.

[Allard is] the best prep pitcher in this year's draft class, boasting the strongest combination of stuff, delivery, body and present ability of anyone in the group.

...but it wasn't the kind of outing I was hoping to see -- it was an opponent he should have just overpowered with stuff, but to their credit they waited him out and ended up getting into a number of hitters' counts against him. I still see him as a top 10 pick, probably a top-five talent, assuming this outing was a blip and not a sign that throwing strikes will be an issue going forward.

[Nate Colbert]

...but BA posted their Pre-season All-America list to give us a glimpse of some of the top prep talent. Notable "names" include Daz Cameron and Ke'Bryan Hayes (son of Charlie). Cameron has the better chance of going high in the draft, though neither may be a good option so our top picks (Hayes could be an option after the 1st round, if still available).

PG profile of C Garrett Wolforth who is a teammate of Hayes at Tomball's Concordia Lutheran HS. He's the son of "pitching guru" Ron Wolforth and from working with dad has a cannon for an arm. He's a DBU commit and will be one of the younger players in the draft as he graduates from HS a year early. Could be a 2nd or 3rd rounder IF he were willing to forego becoming a Patriot.

[Nate Colbert]

...Heyman reported earlier today that the settlement with Nix was for "significantly less" than the $1.5MM bonus.

That's in line with Drellich's source who says it was a "six figure sum".

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances & news:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate--no major problems in the Friday afternoon outing on the road at Wichita State: 8 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 0 W, 6 K. 98 pitches, 64 strikes.
• Mike Matuella--facing Georgia Tech, went 4 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 0 W, 4 K. @aaronfitt tweeted: 63 pitches.  91-93 in 4th. Used solid 79-82 curve often.
• Nathan Kirby--control spotty against Virginia Tech (4 walks and 2 WPs) but allows just 1 run on 5 hits over 7 1/3 with 6 Ks. Has now walked 14 in 32 IP on the year.

Others of Interest*

• Alex Bregman--homered (#4 on the year) in 4 ABs in SEC opener vs Ole Miss.
• James Kaprielian--extremely solid outing (7 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 2 W 10 K) for the UCLA righty in PAC 12 opener vs Washington Huskies. Now has 49 Ks vs 7 Ws in 32 IP.
• Mitchell Traver--another terrific outing for the Horned Frog as he shuts down Baylor (7 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 6 K) in Big 12 opener. K:W ratio is 31:3 over first 28 IP.
• Grayson Long--in SEC opener vs Auburn, 6.0 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 7 K, 110 pitches, 69 strikes. Aggies win to go to 19-0.
• Parker French--hindered a bit by a sloppy Longhorn defense but ultimately put together a really nice game (9 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 1 W, 7 K) versus WV Mountaineers.
• Josh Staumont--hiccup in yesterday’s game vs Fresno Pacific: 3.2 IP, 5 H, 10 R, 9 ER, 6 W, 7 K. 6 WhooPs!
• Ben Johnson--the Longhorn LF continued his hot-hitting ways going 2-5 with a double (although the 2B actually was a misplayed FB by WV RFer).
• Hutton Moyer--Jamie’s kid has gone 3-8 with 3 walks and a triple thus far in two games against BYU. Bad news is the Pepperdine 2B committed his 6th error (in just 19 games).
• David Hill--under the radar a bit coming into the season but the U of San Diego pitcher is opening some eyes after the start he’s had. A 17th-round pick out of HS in 2012, he allowed just one run on one hit in six innings against the Longhorns several weeks ago while whiffing six. Masterful CG tonight against Portland (9 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 1 W, 14 K). Although in check against the Pilots (109 pitches, 89 for strikes), wildness can be a problem: 15 walks and 7 WPs in 33 IP to go along with 40 strikeouts.
• Kyle Holder--Hill’s teammate on the Toreros, the slick-fielding SS was 2-4 against Portland with a couple of 2-baggers. Now at .356/.397/.441 on the year.
• Jose Vizcaino, Jr--the Santa Clara SS comes back from the hand injury with a blast and goes 3-4 with a longball (#3) and a walk against Loyola Marymount. (Noticed another son of a former Astro in the game tonight between Santa Clara and LMU--Chris Donnels’ son Tanner is the 1B for LMU and in his senior year is off to a pretty decent start batting .356/.461/.660).

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, “helium” guys, guys just for the hell of it, etc.

[Reuben]

I'm hoping to get a chance to see one of Matuella's starts here in Durham. Noticed on the schedule they play a weekend series in early May vs. Virginia, which could be a Matuella-Kirby matchup... unfortunately, it's at Virginia.

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDaniel ‏@kileymcd  3 hours ago
Per multiple scouts former #1 overall pick LHP Brady Aiken will very likely make his season debut on Thursday for IMG Post Grad in Bradenton.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances & news (including Saturday updates):

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate--no major problems in the Friday afternoon outing on the road at Wichita State: 8 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 0 W, 6 K. 98 pitches, 64 strikes.
• Mike Matuella--facing Georgia Tech, went 4 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 0 W, 4 K. @aaronfitt tweeted: 63 pitches.  91-93 in 4th. Used solid 79-82 curve often.
• Nathan Kirby--control spotty against Virginia Tech (4 walks and 2 WPs) but allows just 1 run on 5 hits over 7 1/3 with 6 Ks. Has now walked 14 in 32 IP on the year.
• Kyle Funkhouser--like Kirby, manages to gut one out against Boston College despite wavering control (7 IP, 3 H, 2 ER, 4 W, 6 K). 111 pitches, 60 strikes. 14 walks, 5 HBPs and 1 WP in 31 IP for the season.
• Walker Buehler--in Vandy's game #2 today versus Arkansas, 6 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 7 K. Jheremy Brown of PG (@JBrownPG) tweeted during the game: "Buehler is cruising through 5, sitting 93-94 mph in 5th, touched 95 & showed ability to get in on hands of LHH. Getting lots of GB contact." One inning later, D1Baseball.com's Kendall Rogers (@KendallRogersD1) tweeted:  "Walker Buehler looked terrific in 6th. Still 92-93 with his FB, 2 K's -- One on 92FB and beautiful 81 mph CB."
• Dansby Swanson--2 singles, 2 walks in 1st game of DH against Razorbacks. 0-3 in game #2 but did reach on 2 walks and a HBP.

Others of Interest*

• Alex Bregman--homered (#4 on the year) in 4 ABs in SEC opener vs Ole Miss.
• Carson Fulmer--5 runs allowed including a couple of longballs in 6 frames vs Arkansas. 113 pitches, 68 strikes.
• Phil Bickford--5 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 2 W, 12 K vs Salt Lake CC. 73 strikeouts and just 12 walks now in 35 IP.
• James Kaprielian--extremely solid outing (7 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 2 W 10 K) for the UCLA righty in PAC 12 opener vs Washington Huskies. Now has 49 Ks vs 7 Ws in 32 IP.
• Mitchell Traver--another terrific outing for the Horned Frog as he shuts down Baylor (7 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 6 K) in Big 12 opener. K:W ratio is 31:3 over first 28 IP.
• Grayson Long--in SEC opener vs Auburn, 6.0 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 7 K, 110 pitches, 69 strikes. Aggies win to go to 19-0.
• A.J. Minter--A&M lefty will miss the rest of the season as he undergoes TJS.
• Parker French--hindered a bit by a sloppy Longhorn defense but ultimately put together a really nice game (9 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 1 W, 7 K) versus WV Mountaineers.
• Josh Staumont--hiccup in yesterday’s game vs Fresno Pacific: 3.2 IP, 5 H, 10 R, 9 ER, 6 W, 7 K. 6 WhooPs!
• Ben Johnson--the Longhorn LF continued his hot-hitting ways going 2-5 with a double on Friday night (although the 2B actually was a misplayed FB by WV RFer).
• Rhett Wiseman--like Johnson, a guy who might be climbing the draftboards. The Dores OF came in to the weekend hitting .435/.519/.725. Against the Razorbacks in that DH on Saturday, he went a combined 6-9 with a double, triple, homer, 2 walks and 2 HBPs.
• Hutton Moyer--Jamie’s kid has gone 3-8 with 3 walks and a triple thus far in two games against BYU. Bad news is the Pepperdine 2B committed his 6th error (in just 19 games). 1-4 and reached on a plunk in series finale.
• David Hill--under the radar a bit coming into the season but the U of San Diego pitcher is opening some eyes after the start he’s had. A 17th-round pick out of HS in 2012, he allowed just one run on one hit in six innings against the Longhorns several weeks ago while whiffing six. Masterful CG tonight against Portland (9 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 1 W, 14 K). Although in check against the Pilots (109 pitches, 89 for strikes), wildness can be a problem: 15 walks and 7 WPs in 33 IP to go along with 40 strikeouts.
• Kyle Holder--Hill’s teammate on the Toreros, the slick-fielding SS was 2-4 against Portland with a couple of 2-baggers. Now at .356/.397/.441 on the year.
• Jose Vizcaino, Jr--the Santa Clara SS comes back from the hand injury with a blast and goes 3-4 with a longball (#3) and a walk against Loyola Marymount. (Noticed another son of a former Astro in the game tonight between Santa Clara and LMU--Chris Donnels’ son Tanner is the 1B for LMU and in his senior year is off to a pretty decent start batting .356/.461/.660).
• Trevor McGill--on the hill for LMU in Saturday's game against Santa Clara. Missed all of 2014 after having TJS but still got popped by Cardinals in 3rd round of last year's draft. Obviously DNS but has struggled quite a bit this year as he works his way back. Went 2 innings against the Broncos giving up 4 runs on 4 hits, 2 walks and 2 WPs.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, “helium” guys, guys just for the hell of it, etc.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances & news (including Sunday updates):

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate--no major problems in the Friday afternoon outing on the road at Wichita State: 8 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 0 W, 6 K. 98 pitches, 64 strikes.
• Mike Matuella--facing Georgia Tech, went 4 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 0 W, 4 K. @aaronfitt tweeted: 63 pitches.  91-93 in 4th. Used solid 79-82 curve often.
• Nathan Kirby--control spotty against Virginia Tech (4 walks and 2 WPs) but allows just 1 run on 5 hits over 7 1/3 with 6 Ks. Has now walked 14 in 32 IP on the year.
• Kyle Funkhouser--like Kirby, manages to gut one out against Boston College despite wavering control (7 IP, 3 H, 2 ER, 4 W, 6 K). 111 pitches, 60 strikes. 14 walks, 5 HBPs and 1 WP in 31 IP for the season.
• Walker Buehler--in Vandy's game #2 Saturday versus Arkansas, 6 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 7 K. Jheremy Brown of PG (@JBrownPG) tweeted during the game: "Buehler is cruising through 5, sitting 93-94 mph in 5th, touched 95 & showed ability to get in on hands of LHH. Getting lots of GB contact." One inning later, D1Baseball.com's Kendall Rogers (@KendallRogersD1) tweeted:  "Walker Buehler looked terrific in 6th. Still 92-93 with his FB, 2 K's -- One on 92FB and beautiful 81 mph CB."
• Dansby Swanson--2 singles, 2 walks in 1st game of DH on Saturday against Razorbacks. 0-3 in game #2 but did reach on 2 walks and a HBP. Had game-winning hit on Sunday.

Others of Interest*

• Alex Bregman--homered (#4 on the year) in 4 ABs in SEC opener vs Ole Miss. Went 3-12 the final two games of the series including hitting another longball.
• Carson Fulmer--5 runs allowed including a couple of longballs in 6 frames vs Arkansas. 113 pitches, 68 strikes.
• Phil Bickford--5 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 2 W, 12 K vs Salt Lake CC. 73 strikeouts and just 12 walks now in 35 IP.
• James Kaprielian--extremely solid outing (7 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 2 W 10 K) for the UCLA righty in PAC 12 opener vs Washington Huskies. Now has 49 Ks vs 7 Ws in 32 IP.
• Mitchell Traver--another terrific outing for the Horned Frog as he shuts down Baylor (7 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 6 K) in Big 12 opener. K:W ratio is 31:3 over first 28 IP.
• Grayson Long--in SEC opener vs Auburn, 6.0 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 7 K, 110 pitches, 69 strikes. Aggies win to go to 19-0.
• A.J. Minter--A&M lefty will miss the rest of the season as he undergoes TJS.
• Parker French--hindered a bit by a sloppy Longhorn defense but ultimately put together a really nice game (9 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 1 W, 7 K) versus WV Mountaineers.
• Josh Staumont--hiccup in yesterday’s game vs Fresno Pacific: 3.2 IP, 5 H, 10 R, 9 ER, 6 W, 7 K. 6 WhooPs!
• Ben Johnson--the Longhorn LF continued his hot-hitting ways going 2-5 with a double on Friday night (although the 2B actually was a misplayed FB by WV RFer). A combined 3-8 the following two games with a triple (but also got himself picked off third base on Saturday).
• Rhett Wiseman--like Johnson, a guy who might be climbing the draftboards. The Dores OF came in to the weekend hitting .435/.519/.725. Against the Razorbacks in that DH on Saturday, he went a combined 6-9 with a double, triple, homer, 2 walks and 2 HBPs. Hitless with a walk on Sunday.
• Hutton Moyer--Jamie’s kid has gone 3-8 with 3 walks and a triple thus far in two games against BYU. Bad news is the Pepperdine 2B committed his 6th error (in just 19 games). 1-4 and reached on a plunk in series finale.
• David Hill--under the radar a bit coming into the season but the U of San Diego pitcher is opening some eyes after the start he’s had. A 17th-round pick out of HS in 2012, he allowed just one run on one hit in six innings against the Longhorns several weeks ago while whiffing six. Masterful CG tonight against Portland (9 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 1 W, 14 K). Although in check against the Pilots (109 pitches, 89 for strikes), wildness can be a problem: 15 walks and 7 WPs in 33 IP to go along with 40 strikeouts.
• Kyle Holder--Hill’s teammate on the Toreros, the slick-fielding SS was 2-4 against Portland with a couple of 2-baggers. Now at .356/.397/.441 on the year. Went 3-8 in the Saturday/Sunday games.
• Jose Vizcaino, Jr--the Santa Clara SS comes back from the hand injury with a blast and goes 3-4 with a longball (#3) and a walk against Loyola Marymount. (Noticed another son of a former Astro in the game tonight between Santa Clara and LMU--Chris Donnels’ son Tanner is the 1B for LMU and in his senior year is off to a pretty decent start batting .356/.461/.660). Viz Jr a combined 3-9 on Saturday/Sunday with another HR (#4).
• Trevor McGill--on the hill for LMU in Saturday's game against Santa Clara. Missed all of 2014 after having TJS but still got popped by Cardinals in 3rd round of last year's draft. Obviously DNS but has struggled quite a bit this year as he works his way back. Went 2 innings against the Broncos giving up 4 runs on 4 hits, 2 walks and 2 WPs.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, “helium” guys, guys just for the hell of it, etc.

[Duman]

Next week, I will get to see a kid that is getting a fair amount of buzz in this area.  Trey Cabbage is a 3rd baseman who is committed to Tennessee.  According to two different sources, two Red Sox scouts were at his games this week.  My son's team plays them Monday & Tuesday of next week.  Any draft geeks heard about him? 

Cabbage was as expected.  Far and away the best player on the field.  Smooth LHB.  He stroked a double that hit off the wall in LF in his first at bat and then followed it up with a line drive double in RCF.  His third at bat, he finally swung and missed at a pitch and nubbed a ball that he beat out when the pitcher miss handled it.  He also stole three bases on the night.  He had a fourth stolen but the kid at the plate struck out for the 3rd out of the inning.  He played SS and looked smooth.  There were at least 3 scouts taking video of each at bat.  One was from the Cubs. 

I will see him again tonight. 

[Nate Colbert]

Week of 3/12 (addendum)

Good game tonight I should have covered in last week's TV preview. Rivalry game as Florida State takes on Florida on the SEC Network. The Gators squad includes SS Richie Martin and OF Harrison Bader while the Noles feature OF D.J. Stewart. Stewart and Martin are possible 1st rounders while Bader has gotten off to a terrific start (.424/.557/.898) and may have improved his draft status up in to the first three rounds.

[OregonStrosFan]

Went ahead and stickied this topic... Carry on!

[Nate Colbert]

Mac Marshall went one inning for Chipola yesterday, walking two and giving up a home run. Don't know whether he got hit on a comebacker or not but the short stint evidently was due to him breaking his thumb. Boy that sucks. Out six weeks.

[Nate Colbert]

keithlaw ‏@keithlaw  2h ago
Prep lefty Kolby Allard, a possible top ten pick in June, will miss at least one start with a back injury.

[Duman]

 

I will see him again tonight. 

Last night, the Cabbage went 1-4.  Singled to right on his first at bat.  Struck out looking on full count in his second at bat.  Lined out to the pitcher in his third at bat and popped out to short in his final at bat.  Had two misplays at short. Both of them were plays that required him to show his range. On one he made the play but the throw slipped out of his hand and on the other, he wasn't able to make the play. 

He came in in the seventh to close the game out and was not as impressive as a pitcher.  Hard but very straight and with control issues (bases loaded walk). 

Assessment - he struggled more in game 2.  He was facing a pitcher who is being looked at by DII schools or NAIA schools. Where as in game 1, he was facing a good pitcher who is a sophomore.  The true test for him will come in games against larger schools and in the end of the year tournament.  Word from some of their fans was that we were the first conference team to pitch to him this year. 

[Nate Colbert]

Week of 3/19

The SEC Network showcases LSU vs Arkansas on Thursday and Friday. RHP Trey Killian is the top draft prospect for the Razorbacks. He pitched on Sunday last weekend (where he was pretty slick with 7 no-hit innings against Vanderbilt) so he may not show up in either of the televised games.

Another couple of SEC games will be on ESPNU on Saturday and Sunday. The Sunday game is Florida and Ole Miss. Mentioned it yesterday but check out SS Richie Martin and OF Harrison Bader for the Gators. Not at their level but senior INF Josh Tobias may be worth a look as well. He went in the 31st round to the Nationals out of HS. 35-year old grizzled veteran 1B Sikes Orvis supplies some pop for the Rebels. He was a Red Sox 19th-rounder out of HS and is the 3rd-ranked college senior for this year’s draft by BA.

The Saturday game has Vandy taking on Auburn and is THE game of the week for me. Good chance we'll see RHP Walker Buehler on the rubber (and if not him then RHP Carson Fulmer). Throw in SS Dansby Swanson and you've got a trifecta of possible picks at or near the top of the draft. Considering OF Rhett Wiseman, it's possible there could be a foursome of Dores taken on Draft Day #1.

As far as PAC-12 games (those games always on the conference network), Arizona takes on Stanford on Friday and Sunday. The Wildcats have their terrific middle infield duo of SS Kevin Newman (.452/.500/.570 thru 22 games) and 2B Scott Kingery (.449/.491/.622). The latter definitely has some helium to him and may join Newman as a first day pick.

Another PAC-12 game on tap for Friday night: Oregon State vs Washington State. This time you will (likely) see Beavers ace RHP Andrew Moore.

All three games of the Kansas State/Texas series is on LHN. Same for Texas Tech and Oklahoma on FCS. The Red Raiders feature a number of mid-to-late round prospects including undersized 1B Eric Gutierrez (.329/.470/.526 thru 21 games this season with 17 walks and just 9 strikeouts), OF Tyler Neslony, RHP Matt Withrow, RHP Dalton Brown, SS Tim Proudfoot and RHP Dominic Moreno. The latter two are seniors and Moreno was a 33rd-round pick of the Cardinals last year. Withrow was a Rangers’ 37th-rounder out of HS. Sooners to look for are LHP Adam Choplick and C Anthony Hermelyn. As a RS soph last season, Choplick was taken in the 32nd round by the CWS.

TCU features on two televised games this week. Sunday the opponent is Oklahoma State on FS1 while Tuesday on FSSW they take on Oklahoma. The Horned Frogs feature the arms and it looks like talented LHPs Alex Young (Sunday) and Tyler Alexander (Tuesday) will be toeing the mounds. The latter is a draft-eligible sophomore and was a 23rd-round selection of the Tigers in ‘13. The former went in the 32nd round to the Rangers out of HS and as I mentioned before could be a possibility for the Astros at #37 or #46. (Just as a footnote and not draft-related: TCU has a RS freshman backup INF by the name of Michael Landestoy and yes he’s the son of the former Astros infielder).

Like TT, the Cowboys draft-eligible guys look to be mostly mid-to-late rounders. RHP/OF Conor Costello (16th round, 2011), RHP Trey Cobb, RHP Koda Glover and senior LHP Tyler Nurdin are some of the names there.

Back to the PAC-12 and SEC Networks, respectively. Next Monday on the former has the U of San Diego and their excellent SS Kyle Holder taking on Stanford while Wednesday on the latter sees Cincinnati vs Tennessee in a battle of 1st rounders--INF/OF Ian Happ (.446/.549/.815) and OF Christin Stewart (.345/.473/.690).

SOS disclaimer: not meant to be a complete list of all televised games, many more games are streamed online, blah blah blah.

[Nate Colbert]

A PG article on Phil Bickford (the Salt Lake CC game mentioned is the one he pitched in last Saturday). We learn that he's the "nicest kid" and that he's still not using the changeup.

[BUWebguy]

Reports today that Aiken left his first start with a trainer after throwing just 13 pitches.
https://twitter.com/adamdberry/status/578659038747107328
https://twitter.com/johnmanuelba/status/578658925274337281

[roadrunner]

Reports today that Aiken left his first start with a trainer after throwing just 13 pitches.
https://twitter.com/adamdberry/status/578659038747107328
https://twitter.com/johnmanuelba/status/578658925274337281

Not sure how to describe my feelings right now.  Not really happy, but positive relief?

[Nate Colbert]

The flip side of this is a club that may have taken Aiken (D-backs, Rockies or Rangers) will now take someone the Astros would have drafted.

[VirtualBob]

Reports today that Aiken left his first start with a trainer after throwing just 13 pitches.
https://twitter.com/adamdberry/status/578659038747107328
https://twitter.com/johnmanuelba/status/578658925274337281

Schadenfreude?

[Lefty]

Schadenfreude?

Not sure how to describe my feelings right now.

"Premature" is a good word.

[Duman]

Big sis wasn't happy:

What grown man talks poorly or wishes pain upon some one else? Probably one that lives in their mothers basement wishing for a better life.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Big sis wasn't happy:

Doesn't she know that no one in Houston has a basement?

[roadrunner]

Big sis wasn't happy:

and Brady retweeted it....eyeroll

I feel bad for the kid, it's a shitty situation.  I feel like his agent should take a brunt of the blame.

[VirtualBob]

and Brady retweeted it....eyeroll

I feel bad for the kid, it's a shitty situation.  I feel like his agent should take a brunt of the blame.

Exactly. I feel sort for the kid for his injury but also for the bad self-serving advice he got from the agent. Astros were clearly takng on a risk with the revised offer and the agent refused to acknowledge reality.

[NeilT]

The satisfaction I'm feeling has nothing to do with Aiken.  It's that the front office may have known what they were doing and weren't just being jerks.

[Jacksonian]

The satisfaction I'm feeling has nothing to do with Aiken.  It's that the front office may have known what they were doing and weren't just being jerks.

This might be public acknowledgement or vindication for their actions.  If he really does have an elbow problem and not just a sore forearm muscle.

[Reuben]

It's also possible that he's just being overly cautious and will be back pitching again in 5 or 6 days. Could be a mountain/mole hill situation.

[chuck]

The satisfaction I'm feeling has nothing to do with Aiken.  It's that the front office may have known what they were doing and weren't just being jerks.

The Astros offered the guy five million dollars. Do you think they would offer any sum at all to a guy they thought was unlikely to play due to injury?

[NeilT]

It's also possible that he's just being overly cautious and will be back pitching again in 5 or 6 days. Could be a mountain/mole hill situation.

Yep.  Hope so.

[Duman]

The Astros offered the guy five million dollars. Do you think they would offer any sum at all to a guy they thought was unlikely to play due to injury?

They had to offer a minimum amount (4.5 mil) to be able to get the compensation pick for not signing him.  Then they sweetened that pot to try to avoid losing Nix as well. 

[VirtualBob]

They had to offer a minimum amount (4.5 mil) to be able to get the compensation pick for not signing him.  Then they sweetened that pot to try to avoid losing Nix as well. 

Exactly. Trying to whip up a boat load of lemonade after being stuck with a huge lemon.

[Uncle Charlie]

The Astros offered the guy five million dollars. Do you think they would offer any sum at all to a guy they thought was unlikely to play due to injury?

I know this has been covered but.....what's amazing to me is the advice he received to NOT take the $5 MM offer.  To get that number again, he'd likely have to get picked in the top 5 picks.  He had to know if he didn't sign that the Astros would be likely to have 2 of those 5 picks (or 2 of 6/7).  Anyway, that really leaves only 3-5 teams who would have to take a chance on him having seen one ML team already show extreme concern.  And even then, what's the upside?  Another $1 million?  Geez.  Even if you KNOW you are healthy and can prove it, why take that chance?  And now he's got the perception he has an injury of some sort?  Many GM's will be frightened by the smoke.

[Nate Colbert]

They had to offer a minimum amount (4.5 mil) to be able to get the compensation pick for not signing him. 

$3.2MM was the minimum formal offer originally made to get the compensation pick (40% of the slot amount). That amount was later raised to the $5MM final offer.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

I know this has been covered but.....what's amazing to me is the advice he received to NOT take the $5 MM offer.  To get that number again, he'd likely have to get picked in the top 5 picks.  He had to know if he didn't sign that the Astros would be likely to have 2 of those 5 picks (or 2 of 6/7).  Anyway, that really leaves only 3-5 teams who would have to take a chance on him having seen one ML team already show extreme concern.  And even then, what's the upside?  Another $1 million?  Geez.  Even if you KNOW you are healthy and can prove it, why take that chance?  And now he's got the perception he has an injury of some sort?  Many GM's will be frightened by the smoke.

The last part of this is key.  Even if he pitches lights-out for the rest of the season, the fear's still going to be there.

[Nate Colbert]

It gets worse...

Nathan Rode ‏@NathanRode  3 hours ago
LHP Kolby Allard (CA) out 6 weeks with stress reaction in his back per his coach.

John Manuel of BA chimed in on Allard:

Baseball America confirmed news, first reported by PrepBaseballReport.com, that Allard will miss between six and eight weeks with a stress reaction in his back.

Manuel in the same BA article:

Chipola (Fla.) JC lefthander Mac Marshall left his last start after only one inning of work due to a thumb injury. We’ll update that story as more information becomes available.

As I noted previously, it's broken and Marshall is out 6 weeks.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend pitching performances and news plus (in some cases) draft & injury history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--UTA on the west coast road trip and the 10-8 Mavs touch up Mr. Tate for his worst outing of the year (6.2 IP, 5 H, 4 ER, 3 W, 8 K). A couple of the runs on his resume came courtesy of the following Gauchos reliever. ‏@JBrownPG tweeted: “Tate comes out sitting 93-95 mph w FB, T96 & getting in on LHH. SL @ 83-85 was S&M, flashed CH @ 85.” Video from warm-up and 1st inning.
• Mike Matuella, Duke RHP--against Pitt, 6.1 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 2 W, 5 K. @jesseburkhart tweeted: “Matuella ticks up to 97 in the 3rd on multiple radar guns, sitting 93-95 with command to both sides. Sharp, two-plane SL at 81-82.” Has missed time this spring with forearm tightness. Previously diagnosed with spondylolysis condition.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--6 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 4 BB, 11 K, 1 HBP against #11 Florida State. 105 pitches, 67 strikes. @aaronfitt tweeted: “Kirby has had better command with his slider — which he adds & subtracts from, ranging from 79-85 — than his fastball.”
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--the Funk is awesome (7 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 3 W, 8 K) against Cavan Biggio and #22 Notre Dame.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--Saturday start vs Auburn. Has suffered this spring from elbow soreness.

Other Pitchers of Interest*

• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--up and down outing (5.2 IP, 7 H, 1 ER, 3 W, 8 K) against Auburn.
• Phil Bickford, Southern Nevada RHP--haven’t seen a box score but do know he recorded 9 whiffs in today’s game versus College of Southern Idaho.
• James Kaprielian, UCLA RHP--decent performance (6.2 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 3 W, 7 K) against the 7-12 Utah Utes.
• Hunter Virant, UCLA LHP--entered the weekend having allowed 8 hits, 3 walks and 1 HBP in 4.1 IP. Gave up a run on 2 hits (homer, double) in one inning tonight. 11th round pick of Astros in 2012. Limited action in 2013 and 2014 in part due to stress fracture in back.
• Mitchell Traver, TCU RHP--not the greatest command but limited the damage (5 IP 2 H, 1 ER, 4 W, 3 K) against #19 Okla. State. More walks tonight than in previous 6 games combined. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012. Pitched just ⅓ of an inning in 2013 and 2014 due to thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and TJS.
• Riley Ferrell, TCU RHP--the Horned Frogs closer and likely 1st-rounder faced 7 OSU Cowboy hitters tonight: he K’d 5 of ‘em, walked one and...gave up the game-winning HR. Has now struck out 20 in 11.2 IP this year while allowing just 2 hits.
• Alex Young, TCU LHP--will throw Sunday against Okla. State.
• Tyler Alexander, TCU LHP--a mid-week starter in name only, the draft-eligible sophomore was more than effective (7 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 0 W, 9 K) on Wednesday versus UTPA. 23rd round pick in 2013.
• Grayson Long, Aggie RHP--a Bama beatin’ as the Houston native rolls Tide (6 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 2 W, 14 K). Threw 114 pitches, striking out 9 straight at one point. Aggies go to 23-0.
• Joseph Shaw, DBU RHP--solid effort (6 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 6 K) against Evansville tonight for a guy with top 5 round potential. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• Brandon Koch, DBU RHP--the Patriots closer with up to mid-90s gas picked up his 5th save by striking out the only Evansville hitter he faced. 21:4 K/W in 9.1 IP in ‘15.
• Andrew Suarez, Miami LHP--the 2nd highest pick from 2014 to not sign returned last Sunday after missing a start or two with a strained oblique. Was terrific in that game (6 scoreless versus NC State with just 3 hits and no walks allowed while whiffing 7). Faces Wake Forest this weekend.
• Trevor Megill, LMU RHP--The 3rd highest pick from 2014 to not sign should pitch tomorrow against Pepperdine.
• Josh Staumont, Azusa Pacific RHP--triple digit DII guy presumably pitches tomorrow against Hawai’i Hilo.
• David Hill, San Diego RHP--another terrific performance for the Toreros Friday night starter as he shuts down Santa Clara (8 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 4 W, 7 K). 17th round pick out of HS in 2012.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, “helium” guys, guys just for the hell of it, etc.

Senior Slot Signs

• Benton Moss, North Carolina RHP--entered the weekend with 26:3 K/W in just 15.2 IP. Unsigned 15th rounder from 2014. Has missed time this season with a forearm strain.
• Parker French, Longhorn RHP--with the rainout, will now pitch in the scheduled DH tomorrow against K-State. Unsigned 19th rounder from 2014.

Injured

• Cody Ponce, Cal Poly Pomona RHP--the “other” top-rated DII guy and possible 1st round pick has missed three weeks with shoulder fatigue.
• A.J. Minter, Aggie LHP--out for season with TJS. Limited to just 37 innings in 2013 and 2014 in part due to thoracic outlet syndrome.
• Tyler Stubblefield, Aggie LHP--out indefinitely with torn ACL.
• Colin Poche, DBU LHP--the former Razorback pitcher and 5th-round pick of the Orioles in 2012 is out for the season with TJS.
• Mac Marshall, Chipola LHP--out 6 weeks with a broken thumb. 21st round selection of Astros in 2014.
• Jon Duplantier, Rice RHP--out indefinitely with shoulder issue.
• Jake Lemoine, Coogs RHP--out several weeks with shoulder impingement.

Will recap hitting performances at the end of the weekend.

[BudGirl]

Jake Lemoine, Coogs RHP--out several weeks with shoulder impingement.

What I heard Tuesday it is only supposed to be two weeks, but I guess that could change.

One Cougar that really caught my eye this season is a freshman, Seth Romero, he throws in the low to mid 90s.  He started against Rice Tuesday night and did a pretty good job.

[roadrunner]

I know this has been covered but.....what's amazing to me is the advice he received to NOT take the $5 MM offer.  To get that number again, he'd likely have to get picked in the top 5 picks.  He had to know if he didn't sign that the Astros would be likely to have 2 of those 5 picks (or 2 of 6/7).  Anyway, that really leaves only 3-5 teams who would have to take a chance on him having seen one ML team already show extreme concern.  And even then, what's the upside?  Another $1 million?  Geez.  Even if you KNOW you are healthy and can prove it, why take that chance?  And now he's got the perception he has an injury of some sort?  Many GM's will be frightened by the smoke.

Looking back, it feels like Close (Aiken's agent) reacted too emotionally to Luhnow leaking that there was something wrong physically with Aiken.  But...Luhnow really had no choice.  The media (mainly Drellich and Buster Olney) built up the narrative that Luhnow and the Astros FO as an evil organization that is trying to squeeze every little bit of value out of players using whatever leverage possible, so when this whole issue came up there is no way Luhnow could remain quiet - that just feeds the narrative and continues to damage their image even more.

Maybe Close trashing the Astros in public convinced the Astros to increase their offer and maybe Close at the end of the day recommended to Aiken that he take the $5M deal.  All he can really do is feed his client the information and advice he needs to make a decision.  Unfortunately for Aiken, it looks like he might have made the wrong one - and that's why I think the argument is that Close should have handled this differently.

[Mr. Happy]

Looking back, it feels like Close (Aiken's agent) reacted too emotionally to Luhnow leaking that there was something wrong physically with Aiken.  But...Luhnow really had no choice.  The media (mainly Drellich and Buster Olney) built up the narrative that Luhnow and the Astros FO as an evil organization that is trying to squeeze every little bit of value out of players using whatever leverage possible, so when this whole issue came up there is no way Luhnow could remain quiet - that just feeds the narrative and continues to damage their image even more.

Maybe Close trashing the Astros in public convinced the Astros to increase their offer and maybe Close at the end of the day recommended to Aiken that he take the $5M deal.  All he can really do is feed his client the information and advice he needs to make a decision.  Unfortunately for Aiken, it looks like he might have made the wrong one - and that's why I think the argument is that Close should have handled this differently.

I'll be far more blunt and candid. Close fucked this one up badly. Maybe even malpractice.

[juliogotay]

I'll be far more blunt and candid. Close fucked this one up badly. Maybe even malpractice.

I think part of it was that this situation was a little unprecedented. Close, and maybe  any agent, did not want to be the guy to back down regardless of the situation. He was probably getting calls from his peers telling him not to give in to these slicksters. I don't guess we are any closer to pre-draft physicals?

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend pitching performances and news plus in some cases draft & injury history (including Saturday updates):

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--UTA on the west coast road trip and the 10-8 Mavs touch up Mr. Tate for his worst outing of the year (6.2 IP, 5 H, 4 ER, 3 W, 8 K). A couple of the runs on his resume came courtesy of the following Gauchos reliever. ‏@JBrownPG tweeted: “Tate comes out sitting 93-95 mph w FB, T96 & getting in on LHH. SL @ 83-85 was S&M, flashed CH @ 85.” Video from warm-up and 1st inning.
• Mike Matuella, Duke RHP--against Pitt, 6.1 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 2 W, 5 K. @jesseburkhart tweeted: “Matuella ticks up to 97 in the 3rd on multiple radar guns, sitting 93-95 with command to both sides. Sharp, two-plane SL at 81-82.” Has missed time this spring with forearm tightness. Previously diagnosed with spondylolysis condition.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--6 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 4 BB, 11 K, 1 HBP against #11 Florida State. 105 pitches, 67 strikes. @aaronfitt tweeted: “Kirby has had better command with his slider — which he adds & subtracts from, ranging from 79-85 — than his fastball.”
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--the Funk is awesome (7 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 3 W, 8 K) against Cavan Biggio and #22 Notre Dame.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--Subpar outing versus Auburn (5.2 IP, 8 K, 3 ER, 2 W, 5 K, 1 HBP). @kileymcd  tweeted: “Buehler is holding 92-95 and curveball is above average to plus but there isn't much deception or plane and the heater is pretty straight.” Has suffered this spring from elbow soreness.

Other Pitchers of Interest*

• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--up and down outing (5.2 IP, 7 H, 1 ER, 3 W, 8 K) against Auburn.
• Phil Bickford, Southern Nevada RHP--haven’t seen a box score but do know he recorded 9 whiffs in today’s game versus College of Southern Idaho. Final line: 7 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 0 W, 9 K. 36:3 K to W over his last 18 IP (3 starts).
• James Kaprielian, UCLA RHP--decent performance (6.2 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 3 W, 7 K) against the 7-12 Utah Utes.
• Hunter Virant, UCLA LHP--entered the weekend having allowed 8 hits, 3 walks and 1 HBP in 4.1 IP. Gave up a run on 2 hits (homer, double) in one inning tonight. 11th round pick of Astros in 2012. Limited action in 2013 and 2014 in part due to stress fracture in back.
• Mitchell Traver, TCU RHP--not the greatest command but limited the damage (5 IP 2 H, 1 ER, 4 W, 3 K) against #19 Okla. State. More walks tonight than in previous 6 games combined. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012. Pitched just ⅓ of an inning in 2013 and 2014 due to thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and TJS.
• Riley Ferrell, TCU RHP--the Horned Frogs closer and likely 1st-rounder faced 7 OSU Cowboy hitters tonight: he K’d 5 of ‘em, walked one and...gave up the game-winning HR. Has now struck out 20 in 11.2 IP this year while allowing just 2 hits.
• Alex Young, TCU LHP--will throw Sunday against Okla. State.
• Tyler Alexander, TCU LHP--a mid-week starter in name only, the draft-eligible sophomore was more than effective (7 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 0 W, 9 K) on Wednesday versus UTPA. 23rd round pick in 2013.
• Grayson Long, Aggie RHP--a Bama beatin’ as the Houston area native rolls Tide (6 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 2 W, 14 K). Threw 114 pitches, striking out 9 straight at one point. Aggies go to 23-0.
• Joseph Shaw, DBU RHP--solid effort (6 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 6 K) against Evansville tonight for a guy with top 5 round potential. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• Brandon Koch, DBU RHP--the Patriots closer with up to 96-98 gas picked up his 5th save by striking out the only Evansville hitter he faced. 21:4 K/W in 9.1 IP in ‘15.
• Andrew Suarez, Miami LHP--the 2nd highest pick from 2014 to not sign returned last Sunday after missing a start or two with a strained oblique. Was terrific in that game (6 scoreless versus NC State with just 3 hits and no walks allowed while whiffing 7). Not the same kind of success on Saturday versus Wake Forest: 5 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, 1 W, 3 K.
• Trevor Megill, LMU RHP--The 3rd highest pick from 2014 to not sign should pitch tomorrow against Pepperdine. Missed all of 2014 after undergoing TJS.
• Josh Staumont, Azusa Pacific RHP--did the usual against Hawai’i Hilo: lotsa traffic, lotsa strikeouts (6 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 6 W, 11 K). Reports said he was between 94-99 on the FB.
• David Hill, San Diego RHP--another terrific performance for the Toreros Friday night starter as he shuts down Santa Clara (8 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 4 W, 7 K). 17th round pick out of HS in 2012.
• Trey Killian, Arkansas RHP--the LSU offense wasn’t as friendly (6 IP, 9 H, 3 ER, 1 W, 1 K) one week after no-hitting Vandy over 7 innings. Missed the early part of the season recovering from tendonitis in his right elbow first suffered while pitching for Team USA last summer.
• Andrew Moore, Oregon State RHP--in a game from Friday night, the Beavers ace shut down Washington State (8.2 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 1 W, 10 K). Now 44 strikeouts and just 5 walks in 46.2 innings in 2015.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, “helium” guys, guys just for the hell of it, etc.

Senior Slot Signs

• Benton Moss, North Carolina RHP--entered the weekend with 26:3 K/W in just 15.2 IP. Unsigned 15th rounder from 2014. Has missed time this season with a forearm strain.
• Parker French, Longhorn RHP--sinkerballer was not the sharpest against K-State, leaving his pitches up even though the final line was not particularly ugly (6 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 2 W, 4 K). Unsigned 19th rounder from 2014.

Injured

• Cody Ponce, Cal Poly Pomona RHP--the “other” top-rated DII guy and possible 1st round pick has missed three weeks with shoulder fatigue.
• A.J. Minter, Aggie LHP--out for season with TJS. Limited to just 37 innings in 2013 and 2014 in part due to thoracic outlet syndrome.
• Tyler Stubblefield, Aggie LHP--out indefinitely with torn ACL.
• Colin Poche, DBU LHP--the former Razorback pitcher and 5th-round pick of the Orioles in 2012 is out for the season with TJS.
• Mac Marshall, Chipola LHP--out 6 weeks with a broken thumb. 21st round selection of Astros in 2014.
• Jon Duplantier, Rice RHP--out indefinitely with shoulder issue.
• Jake Lemoine, Coogs RHP--out several weeks with shoulder impingement.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend pitching performances and news plus some draft & injury history (including Sunday updates):

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--UTA on the west coast road trip and the 10-8 Mavs touch up Mr. Tate for his worst outing of the year (6.2 IP, 5 H, 4 ER, 3 W, 8 K). A couple of the runs on his resume came courtesy of the following Gauchos reliever. ‏@JBrownPG tweeted: “Tate comes out sitting 93-95 mph w FB, T96 & getting in on LHH. SL @ 83-85 was S&M, flashed CH @ 85.” Video from warm-up and 1st inning.
• Mike Matuella, Duke RHP--against Pitt, 6.1 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 2 W, 5 K. @jesseburkhart tweeted: “Matuella ticks up to 97 in the 3rd on multiple radar guns, sitting 93-95 with command to both sides. Sharp, two-plane SL at 81-82.” Has missed time this spring with forearm tightness. Previously diagnosed with spondylolysis condition.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--6 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 4 BB, 11 K, 1 HBP against #11 Florida State. 105 pitches, 67 strikes. @aaronfitt tweeted: “Kirby has had better command with his slider — which he adds & subtracts from, ranging from 79-85 — than his fastball.”
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--the Funk is awesome (7 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 3 W, 8 K) against Cavan Biggio and #22 Notre Dame.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--Subpar outing versus Auburn (5.2 IP, 8 K, 3 ER, 2 W, 5 K, 1 HBP). @kileymcd  tweeted: “Buehler is holding 92-95 and curveball is above average to plus but there isn't much deception or plane and the heater is pretty straight.” Has suffered this spring from elbow soreness.

Other Pitchers of Interest*

• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--up and down outing (5.2 IP, 7 H, 1 ER, 3 W, 8 K) against Auburn.
• Phil Bickford, Southern Nevada RHP--haven’t seen a box score but do know he recorded 9 whiffs in today’s game versus College of Southern Idaho. Final line: 7 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 0 W, 9 K. 36:3 K to W over his last 18 IP (3 starts).
• Kyle Cody, Kentucky RHP--a guy considered 1st round material coming into the season, the 6’7” 245-pounder was battered and tattered on Sunday facing #20 Mississippi State (4 IP, 7 H, 6 ER, 3 W, 0 K).
• James Kaprielian, UCLA RHP--decent performance (6.2 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 3 W, 7 K) against the 7-12 Utah Utes.
• Hunter Virant, UCLA LHP--entered the weekend having allowed 8 hits, 3 walks and 1 HBP in 4.1 IP. Gave up a run on 2 hits (homer, double) in one inning tonight. 11th round pick of Astros in 2012. Limited action in 2013 and 2014 in part due to stress fracture in back.
• Mitchell Traver, TCU RHP--not the greatest command but limited the damage (5 IP 2 H, 1 ER, 4 W, 3 K) against #19 Okla. State. More walks tonight than in previous 6 games combined. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012. Pitched just ⅓ of an inning in 2013 and 2014 due to thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and TJS.
• Riley Ferrell, TCU RHP--the Horned Frogs closer and likely 1st-rounder faced 7 OSU Cowboy hitters tonight: he K’d 5 of ‘em, walked one and...gave up the game-winning HR. Has now struck out 20 in 11.2 IP this year while allowing just 2 hits.
• Alex Young, TCU LHP--succinct Sunday start (2.2 IP, 6 H, 0 ER, 2 W, 4 K) against Okla. State.
• Tyler Alexander, TCU LHP--a mid-week starter in name only, the draft-eligible sophomore was more than effective (7 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 0 W, 9 K) on Wednesday versus UTPA. 23rd round pick in 2013.
• Grayson Long, Aggie RHP--a Bama beatin’ as the Houston native rolls Tide (6 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 2 W, 14 K). Threw 114 pitches, striking out 9 straight at one point. Aggies go to 23-0.
• Joseph Shaw, DBU RHP--solid effort (6 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 6 K) against Evansville Friday night for a guy with top 5 round potential. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• Brandon Koch, DBU RHP--the Patriots closer with up to 96-98 gas picked up his 5th save Friday by striking out the only Evansville hitter he faced. 21:4 K/W in 9.1 IP in ‘15.
• Andrew Suarez, Miami LHP--the 2nd highest pick from 2014 to not sign returned last Sunday after missing a start or two with a strained oblique. Was terrific in that game (6 scoreless versus NC State with just 3 hits and no walks allowed while whiffing 7). Not the same kind of success on Saturday versus Wake Forest: 5 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, 1 W, 3 K.
• Trevor Megill, LMU RHP--The 3rd highest pick from 2014 to not sign should pitch tomorrow against Pepperdine. Missed all of 2014 after undergoing TJS.
• Josh Staumont, Azusa Pacific RHP--did the usual against Hawai’i Hilo: lotsa traffic, lotsa strikeouts (6 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 6 W, 11 K). Reports said he was between 94-99 on the FB.
• Cody Ponce, Cal Poly Pomona RHP--the “other” top-rated DII guy and possible 1st round pick has missed three starts with shoulder fatigue. Returned to action on Sunday, throwing mid-90s gas. Pitch count limited him to 3 innings of work, allowing 1 earned run on 3 hits with 3 Ks.
• David Hill, San Diego RHP--another terrific performance for the Toreros Friday night starter as he shuts down Santa Clara (8 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 4 W, 7 K). 17th round pick out of HS in 2012.
• Trey Killian, Arkansas RHP--the LSU offense wasn’t as friendly (6 IP, 9 H, 3 ER, 1 W, 1 K) one week after no-hitting Vandy over 7 innings. Missed the early part of the season recovering from tendonitis in his right elbow first suffered while pitching for Team USA last summer.
• Andrew Moore, Oregon State RHP--in a game from Friday night, the Beavers ace shut down Washington State (8.2 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 1 W, 10 K). Now 44 strikeouts and just 5 walks in 46.2 innings in 2015.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, “helium” guys, guys just for the hell of it, etc.

Senior Slot Signs

• Benton Moss, North Carolina RHP--entered the weekend with 26:3 K/W in just 15.2 IP. Effective in a win against Georgia Tech in the second game of a DH on Saturday (6 IP, 9 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 8 K). Unsigned 15th rounder from 2014. Has missed time this season with a forearm strain.
• Parker French, Longhorn RHP--sinkerballer was not the sharpest against K-State, leaving his pitches up even though the final line was not particularly ugly (6 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 2 W, 4 K). Unsigned 19th rounder from 2014.

Injured

• A.J. Minter, Aggie LHP--out for season with TJS. Limited to just 37 innings in 2013 and 2014 in part due to thoracic outlet syndrome.
• Tyler Stubblefield, Aggie LHP--out indefinitely with torn ACL.
• Colin Poche, DBU LHP--the former Razorback pitcher and 5th-round pick of the Orioles in 2012 is out for the season with TJS.
• Mac Marshall, Chipola LHP--out 6 weeks with a broken thumb. 21st round selection of Astros in 2014.
• Jon Duplantier, Rice RHP--out indefinitely with shoulder issue.
• Jake Lemoine, Coogs RHP--out several weeks with shoulder impingement.

[Reuben]

Has Aiken's camp made any sort of statement about his injury?

[Nate Colbert]

Has Aiken's camp made any sort of statement about his injury?

Not that I've heard.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend hitting performances & news plus some draft & injury history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--had a 3-12 weekend against Auburn with 2 doubles, a HR, 3 walks and reached on a HBP. On the year: .365/.475/.573.

Other Hitters of Interest*

• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--had a 2-10 weekend against the Razorbacks with 3 walks and his 6th longball. For 2015, at .316/.375/.612 with just 2 strikeouts in 98 ABs.
• Kevin Newman, Arizona SS--had a 4-12 weekend against Stanford with 2 SBs. Now hitting .438/.487/.543 in 25 games.
• Richie Martin, Florida SS--went 2-13 with a walk and a steal in Oxford vs Ole Miss. Currently .272/.389/.391.
• Mikey White, Alabama SS--against the Aggies, a 3-11 weekend and reached on a plunk. Big-boy numbers for the season: .400/.474/.700.
• Blake Trahan, La-Lafayette SS--weekend series vs Georgia State included a 4-12 at the plate with a double and reached on 3 HBPs. Season to date: .416/.520/.584.
• C.J. Hinojosa, Longhorn SS--went 2-12 as bat remains weak in 2015. 26th round pick of the Astros in 2012.
• Kyle Holder, San Diego SS--matched up against Viz Junior, more or less a push at least hitting-wise. Went 3-11 at the plate against Santa Clara with 2 walks and 2 steals. Hitting .341/.386/.402 for the season.
• Jose Vizcaino Jr, Santa Clara SS--versus San Diego, went 4-11 with a walk. To date, a rather healthy .386/.486/.702. 36th-rounder back in 2012 by the Dodgers (who his dad then and now works for).
• David Fletcher, LMU SS--draft-eligible sophomore who had an outstanding freshman season (.329/.362/.374 with 17 steals in 21 attempts) for the Lions, starting and playing in all 56 games. Had a 4-11 weekend against Pepperdine with 3 walks and 2 doubles. For 2015, he’s at .341/.435/.484 and 8-9 in steals.
• Daniel Pinero, Virginia SS--although he reached 44 times on walks and HBPs, his numbers at the plate last year weren’t impressive (.261/.372/.286) but the fact that he came in to a top-level program like the Cavaliers and started all 68 games as a freshman is pretty eye-opening. A big boy at the position at 6’5”, he’s hitting much better this season (.293/.385/.476) including a 5-14 weekend against Florida State while also reaching on a HBP and a walk. 20th round pick of the Astros in 2013 and a draft-eligible sophomore.
• Kevin Kramer, UCLA SS--the Bruins leadoff hitter has been torrid over the last couple of weeks and went 6-13 with 2 walks and 2 SBs over the weekend and is now up to .430/.529/.686 in 22 games on the year. RS junior who missed all of the 2014 season after undergoing shoulder surgery. 25th round selection in 2011 draft out of HS.
• Scott Kingery, Arizona 2B--dude went 5-11 with a double, 3 SBs and reached on a HBP in the series sweep at Stanford’s Sunken Diamond. Thru 25 games, batting .450/.488/.618.
• Mark Mathias, Cal Poly 2B--had a 3-12 weekend with a walk against USC. Currently .389/.450/.463. Missed 7 games at the beginning of 2015 as he works his way back from offseason shoulder surgery and has been DHing since.
• Hutton Moyer, Pepperdine 2B--went 4-13 over the weekend against LMU including his 5th HR which leads the Waves. His slash line for 2015: .278/.385/.489. Son of Jamie.
• David Thompson, Miami 1B/3B--surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome and the recovery therefrom resulted in a down year at the plate last year but he’s healthy now. After hitting no homers last year in 30 games, he came in to the weekend with 6 homers already in 22 games with 5 of those coming in the last 6 games. 2 more dingers on Friday gave him 7 HRs in 7 games. Overall, 5-13 on the weekend against Wake Forest. And for the year: .361/.454/.732 with 8 longballs.
• Michael Foster, Northeastern INF/OF--went 2-10 with a walk over the weekend against UNC-Wilmington but is off to a blistering .439/.500/.621 start in 18 games with 5 SBs in 6 attempts. Not bad for a guy at a cold weather school. RS junior who was selected by the Astros in the 38th round last year after a .299/.369/.394 season.
• Edwin Rios, FIU INF/OF--having grown up in the Kissimmee area, a guy who should be pretty familiar to the Astros. The lefty swinger had a tremendous freshman campaign for the Panthers at .332/.412/.548 before declining to .296/.341/.400 last year. Went off on UNC-Charlotte for 3 homers on Saturday. Had another longball on Sunday and overall for the weekend was 7-12 with 2 walks and the 4 HRs. Now at .268/.390/.524 on the year.
• Ian Happ, Cincinnati INF/OF--his ballclub got swept in a 4-game series by the Wolf Pack in Reno but when he wasn’t being walked (6 times) Mr. Happ went 4-12. Two of those hits were his 6th and 7th HRs of the year. Silly numbers for the year: .427/.542/.800.
• Harrison Bader, Florida OF--like Richie Martin, struggled in Oxford going just 1-13. Still gaudy numbers at .360/.490/.760.
• DJ Stewart, FSU OF--if it wasn’t for Rios, might have won the weekend. 5-9 with 3 pokes and 7 walks against stiff competition (Virginia). Season to date: .304/.534/.684. Definitely the Mr. 3TO of the draft: 34 walks, 25 whiffs, 9 whams out of the park to date.
• Christin Stewart, Tennessee OF--against Georgia, 3-9 with a double/HR #6/4 walks. A blistering .343/.483/.716 for the year.
• Logan Taylor, Texas A&M OF--had a 2-10 weekend versus Bama with a couple of walks. To date: .316/.393/.582.
• Rhett Wiseman, Vanderbilt OF--pedestrian 2-14 weekend against Auburn for a guy who had been one of the hottest hitters in college baseball. Now at .390/.483/.650 thru 24 games.
• Ben Johnson, Longhorn OF--the former Westwood High QB continued his hot ways going 4-12 with 3 doubles, a triple and a walk against K-State. Currently .404/.442/.644.
• Ty Moore, UCLA OF--had a 6-13 weekend versus Utah. Slash line is currently .384/.460/.512. 25th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Reese Cooley, Chipola OF--NJCAA Region 8 Player of the Week as he hit .500 (11-for-22) with nine runs scored, one double, four home runs, eight RBI and two stolen bases in five games. Unsigned 26th rounder from 2014 out of HS.
• Isiah Gilliam, Chipola 1B/OF--Currently .342/.403/.518 in 33 games for the year. Unsigned 23rd rounder from 2014 out of HS.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, “helium” guys, guys just for the hell of it, etc.

Senior Slot Signs

• Zack Zehner, Cal Poly OF--just 1-11 with 5 strikeouts in series against USC and underwhelming at .247/.302/.455 on the year. The 5th highest pick from 2014 to not sign (7th round, Blue Jays).
• Austin Byler, Nevada 1B--had a 3-13 series with 6 walks and a triple against Cincinnati. Currently .337/.517/.675 but has struck out 27 times in 83 ABs. Unsigned 9th rounder from 2014.
• Kyle Martin, South Carolina 1B--went 6-13 against Mizzou. For 2015, is hitting .391/.452/.598 with just 9 strikeouts versus 12 walks. Unsigned 20th rounder from 2014.
• Chris Keck, UCLA 3B--after not hitting any home runs thru his junior season, no surprise this guy went undrafted in 2014. Also contributing was the blood clot in his arm that caused him to miss the final 6 weeks of last season. The Bruins cleanup guy has 6 longballs in 22 games thus far this year and currently has a .342/.438/.684 slash line. Went 4-14 against Utah.
• A.J. Murray, Georgia Tech C/1B--just 1-11 with 6 strikeouts against North Carolina. On the year, the Yellow Jackets cleanup hitter is at .306/.419/.588 (though with 28 strikeouts in 85 ABs). 48th round selection by the Astros in 2011 out of HS.
• Tanner Donnels, Loyola Marymount 1B--hitting .329/.443/.633 on the year after going 5-9 against Pepperdine over the weekend with 2 homers (#4 & #5) and reaching an additional 5 times on walks/HBPs. Son of Chris.

Injured

• Joe McCarthy, Virginia OF--out 3 months after back surgery.

[pots]

They had to offer a minimum amount (4.5 mil) to be able to get the compensation pick for not signing him.  Then they sweetened that pot to try to avoid losing Nix as well. 

Wasn't just Nix.  5 million was the cap to land Nix and Marshall.  Certainly seemed like the only way the Astros were willing to risk Aiken was if they got both Marshall and Nix.  (because the 6.5 million original offer lands Nix while still being under the cap.)   

IMO, the Astros played things out very business like.  Aiken/Close camp seemed to go more the emotional/taking it personal route (given there seems to be no conceivable way he ever makes more than 5 million draft bonus and the statements made to the public).    And to me, Close is suppose to be the business end of that camp, which IMO puts the vast majority of the blame on him. 

The only mistake the Astros made was with Nix.  They never should have taken it as far as they did with him till the money was guaranteed.  And they paid for it.

[Jacksonian]

The only mistake the Astros made was with Nix.  They never should have taken it as far as they did with him till the money was guaranteed.  And they paid for it.

I'm not sure that was a mistake.  The mess with Aiken was unprecedented in the new CBA with cap limits.  He had agreed to a number and everything was going on as normal.  A wacky physical from out of nowhere derailed it.  I think of it more as a something to be learned under this CBA.

[pots]

I'm not sure that was a mistake.  The mess with Aiken was unprecedented in the new CBA with cap limits.  He had agreed to a number and everything was going on as normal.  A wacky physical from out of nowhere derailed it.  I think of it more as a something to be learned under this CBA.

It's not unprecedented to have bad things show up in a physical.  Unlikely sure, but not unprecedented.  And they knew that the money from Nix came from the leftovers of the Aiken signing.  They put the cart before the horse and paid 1.5 million for that mistake.   This was the 3rd year of the new CBA.  One the Astros have manipulated well in the past.   No idea why they felt the need to go too far with Nix early.  What benefit would it have served?   

[Jacksonian]

It's not unprecedented to have bad things show up in a physical.  Unlikely sure, but not unprecedented.  And they knew that the money from Nix came from the leftovers of the Aiken signing.  They put the cart before the horse and paid 1.5 million for that mistake.   This was the 3rd year of the new CBA.  One the Astros have manipulated well in the past.   No idea why they felt the need to go too far with Nix early.  What benefit would it have served?   

There could have been arrogance on their part.  Could have been a push from Nix.  Could have been Nix/Aiken collusion.  We'll never really know.  Regardless there was absolutely no reason up to the point of the physical for the Astros to assume or delay other negotiations because of the likelihood of a major physical problem.  Don't forget there was also a time crunch.  The deals had to be done by mid-July.  As an aside I can only imagine the disappointment Luhnow felt when he got the results of that physical.  He effectively rolled snake eyes on a 1-1.  If Aiken delays in signing then if you hadn't laid enough groundwork you won't get other deals done.  This was way too complex for folks, not you, to piss on the Astros, IMO.

[Uncle Charlie]

  This was way too complex....

There are so many ways that this could have gone down we cannot discuss all of the possibilities.  The only thing I think they could have done with Nix (and may have for all I know) is to be upfront and transparent with him when agreeing the number.  If they told him that they drafted him knowing that they needed to save money elsewhere...and likely only to come from a big $ place like Aiken, then he would/should have been able to take it.  His sign-ability is why he was available at 5-1 and any other team would have been dealing with the same issue.  Maybe they did communicate this, maybe they didn't.  We'll likely never know.

[Reuben]

Pots, minor nit here; they didn't pay Nix $1.5m, the settlement was for a "six-figure" sum.

[pots]

Pots, minor nit here; they didn't pay Nix $1.5m, the settlement was for a "six-figure" sum.

So Whitey heard wrong then.  Honestly, this isn't just a nitpick.  If it was full amount then the Astros just went way too far too early in negotiations (If I recall correctly they had Nix wrapped up in mid-June before late June finding out about Aiken). His case would have had to be pretty solid for full amount.  But being a partial amount of unknown quantity adds more unknowns.  6 figures could be as low as 10%.  A token payment to just get rid of an unfounded grievance.

[Reuben]

So Whitey heard wrong then.  Honestly, this isn't just a nitpick.  If it was full amount then the Astros just went way too far too early in negotiations (If I recall correctly they had Nix wrapped up in mid-June before late June finding out about Aiken). His case would have had to be pretty solid for full amount.  But being a partial amount of unknown quantity adds more unknowns.  6 figures could be as low as 10%.  A token payment to just get rid of an unfounded grievance.

Yep, Gammons heard wrong or perhaps just wrote wrong or was interpreted wrong. I think Heyman reported the 6-figure news fairly recently; here's a Drellich article that also has that number.

[astrosfan76]

BA weekly report on college prospects with a blurb on Kirby:

“He’s missing high,” one American League scout noted. Still, Kirby has shown the ability to pound both sides of the strike zone, leading another evaluator to speculate that the high walk numbers are more the result of Kirby’s refined approach, rather than a sign of more serious problems...Kirby has really focused on attacking hitters with his changeup.

While these concerns are not going to break Kirby, they could make the difference of a few picks in June. This will be a situation to monitor closely going forward.

Callis was given a shoot-from-the-hip question on Twitter about the draft and had this response:

Jim Callis ‏@jimcallisMLB 4h4 hours ago

Guessing...maybe Kirby & Swanson? @texanfan2785: w/@Astros having 2nd and 5th pick plus most allocated money, which direction...? @MLBDraft

I don't think he was implying who they would take, but it does give an idea of who might make sense, talent-wise with those picks.  Especially with the injury concerns with the top pitchers this season, Kirby seems to make a lot of sense.  That isn't to say that he's a shoe-in for a top 2 or top 5 pick, but he's probably definitely in the mix, at this point.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/college-draft-prospects-stat-roundup-week-6-3/

[Nate Colbert]

Jesse Burkhart of FG was at the Matuella start last Friday (I posted a tweet from him in the weekend pitching performance recap). Well here's his long-form report on that outing. For those who who don't want to click thru, here's the money portion:

Given his combination of pure stuff, physicality and pitchability, Matuella is a top-five talent in this draft. The big question mark of course is whether teams overlook his short track record and believe he can handle a starting pitcher’s volume. Provided no serious health complications arise from his back condition, he has a chance to develop into a frontline starter with improved control and a better changeup, offering a high floor as a rotation mainstay thanks to premium velocity and sufficient aptitude.

[Reuben]

It's also possible that he's just being overly cautious and will be back pitching again in 5 or 6 days. Could be a mountain/mole hill situation.

keithlaw @keithlaw  ·  Mar 22
Nothing official. Might make his next scheduled start. RT @mikeaxisa: @keithlaw Has there been an update on Aiken?

[Nate Colbert]

Week of 3/26

The SEC Network again is where most of the draft prospect action is at over the upcoming week. Bama vs Florida (Thursday) and Missouri vs Texas A&M (Saturday) are first up with games between Tennessee and Vandy (later Saturday and then on Sunday as well) also on the docket.

You already know the names for Vanderbilt. Tennessee features likely 1st rounder OF Christin Stewart. Missou/A&M has OF Logan Taylor of course. A couple of possible 1st round infielders are featured in the Bama/Florida tilt with SS Mikey White and SS Richie Martin. The Gators OF Harrison Bader is another likely 1st rounder.

All 3 weekend games of the Oregon/Arizona series is on PAC-12 Network. Check out Ducks’ pitchers LHP Garrett Cleavinger (closer) and LHP Cole Irvin (I believe he’ll start Sunday). 3B Mitchell Tolman and senior C Shaun Chase are a couple of lesser names. SS Kevin Newman and 2B Scott Kingery of course for the Wildcats. Southern Miss and Rice match up in C-USA play on Friday on FS1. OF Connor Barron is an interesting senior for the Golden Eagles while the Owls feature SS Leon Byrd and senior C John Clay Reeves. Absent a shift in the rotation, RHP Kevin McCanna should be on the hill for Rice.

The B1G Network kicks off its baseball coverage this weekend with Nebraska taking on the Longhorns on Saturday. Wichita State versus TCU (likely starter: LHP Alex Young) on Sunday is on FSSW.

SOS disclaimer: not meant to be a complete list of all televised games, many more games are streamed online, blah blah blah.

[Jacksonian]

Week of 3/26

The SEC Network again is where most of the draft prospect action is at over the upcoming week. Bama vs Florida (Thursday) and Missouri vs Texas A&M (Saturday) are first up with games between Tennessee and Vandy (later Saturday and then on Sunday as well) also on the docket.

You already know the names for Vanderbilt. Tennessee features likely 1st rounder OF Christin Stewart. Missou/A&M has OF Logan Taylor of course. A couple of possible 1st round infielders are featured in the Bama/Florida tilt with SS Mikey White and SS Richie Martin. The Gators OF Harrison Bader is another likely 1st rounder.

All 3 weekend games of the Oregon/Arizona series is on PAC-12 Network. Check out Ducks’ pitchers LHP Garrett Cleavinger (closer) and LHP Cole Irvin (I believe he’ll start Sunday). 3B Mitchell Tolman and senior C Shaun Chase are a couple of lesser names. SS Kevin Newman and 2B Scott Kingery of course for the Wildcats. Southern Miss and Rice match up in C-USA play on Friday on FS1. OF Connor Barron is an interesting senior for the Golden Eagles while the Owls feature SS Leon Byrd and senior C John Clay Reeves. Absent a shift in the rotation, RHP Kevin McCanna should be on the hill for Rice.

The B1G Network kicks off its baseball coverage this weekend with Nebraska taking on the Longhorns on Saturday. Wichita State versus TCU (likely starter: LHP Alex Young) on Sunday is on FSSW.

SOS disclaimer: not meant to be a complete list of all televised games, many more games are streamed online, blah blah blah.

Fuck the disclaimers.  Well done!

[Nate Colbert]

Fuck the disclaimers.  Well done!

Thank you, sir.

[Mr. Happy]

Fuck the disclaimers.  Well done!

+1 NC is kicking ass and taking names!

[MusicMan]

For BP subscribers:

BP previews the top 50 draft prospects.

[roadrunner]

For BP subscribers:

BP previews the top 50 draft prospects.

Aiken at 1...interesting.

[pots]

Aiken at 1...interesting.

Eh, from a talent standpoint he's number one.  But no shot of actually being taken there due to the unknown ligament issue.  I'm assuming BP isn't taking that into account because they have no facts on the situation.

[Nate Colbert]

+1 NC is kicking ass and taking names!

As always thanks for the encouraging words Hap!

[Nate Colbert]

A brief PG scouting report on SS Nick Shumpert who with his Highlands Ranch HS (Colorado) team was competing in the Coach Bob National Invitational Tournament:

He made at least two “plus range” plays on Tuesday, ranging far to his right to snare a groundball before seemingly turning on a dime and throwing a clothesline across the infield to nab the runner by a full step. It was an impressive display of lateral agility, footwork, athleticism, and arm strength—all of which Shumpert has in spades. He showed excellent bat speed at the plate, to go along with a swing that is highlighted by natural lift and lots of leverage. He expanded the zone a few times and chased high fastballs, coming up empty, but the potential of that swing with that bat speed is something that will keep pro scouts talking.

[Nate Colbert]

Frankie Piliere ‏@FPilierePG  4 hours ago
A fact to weigh on @UVABaseball ace Nathan Kirby. Avg 1st pitch temperature for his starts [in] 2015? 39.6 degrees. Yet still dealing.

[Nate Colbert]

Aiken had TJS yesterday. Broke the news himself.

[subnuclear]

Aiken had TJS yesterday. Broke the news himself.

Good luck to him.

[roadrunner]

I'm not sure there is a situation that could have vindicated the Astros more.  He literally got hurt the first time stepping on the mound since the draft and required Tommy John.

I agree, no one wins....but the Astros did the right thing. 

[hostros7]

Aiken at 1...interesting.

He had TJ today.  Poor kid, shitty agent.  Aiken signing at the lower offering would have wound up as a win for all parties involved.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

So what does he do now? He won't play at IMG this year, and he can't go to a four year school. Juco or Indy league?

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

This is what he has to say about turning down the Astros offer, "The money wasn’t the only factor to consider. I wanted to play somewhere I felt comfortable, with a support system I felt would lay the groundwork for a successful and long career."

[NeilT]

This is what he has to say about turning down the Astros offer, "The money wasn’t the only factor to consider. I wanted to play somewhere I felt comfortable, with a support system I felt would lay the groundwork for a successful and long career."

Didn't they tell him about the Texas Medical Center?

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

So what does he do now? He won't play at IMG this year, and he can't go to a four year school. Juco or Indy league?

He'll get drafted this year, probably not in the top half of the first round. Get a smaller signing bonus than the Astros offer, and recuperate/rehab.

[jbm]

Best of luck to the kid.  Looks like a bullet skillfully dodged, or just sweet dumb luck on the Astros part.

[Uncle Charlie]

This is what he has to say about turning down the Astros offer, "The money wasn’t the only factor to consider. I wanted to play somewhere I felt comfortable, with a support system I felt would lay the groundwork for a successful and long career."

Whatever he has to say to himself.  $5 MM is a lot of groundwork.  Even after taxes he could have expected $3 MM which at 5% per year dividend throws off $150k/year.  In other words, a comfortable life regardless of what happened.

I can't imagine this is at all good for Casey Close's liability insurance claim status.

Sad all the way around, though it will help to restore some of the Astros front office cred.

[Nate Colbert]

Jim Callis notes:

Aiken still could go very early in the 2015 Draft. Jeff Hoffman had Tommy John surgery last May and signed for $3,080,000 as the No. 9 overall choice by the Blue Jays in June. The Nationals took Erick Fedde at No. 18 and paid him $2,511,100 despite knowing that his elbow needed to be reconstructed.

FWIW, MLBPipeline.com dropped Aiken from #3 to #6 on their draftboard (a draftboard, I might add, that still has Dillon Tate at #30).

[BizidyDizidy]

The commentary/rumor I saw yesterday was that the Astros' issue was not necessarily just that he may need Tommy John surgery, but that it may not fix what's wrong with his elbow.

[jbm]

That was my recollection.  Something about an abnormally small ligament, not just a damaged one.  At any rate, I'd be surprised if Callis is correct in his statement that Aiken could still be drafted early.

[Uncle Charlie]

The commentary/rumor I saw yesterday was that the Astros' issue was not necessarily just that he may need Tommy John surgery, but that it may not fix what's wrong with his elbow.

Exactly - the decision to lower the price was about taking on additional risk.  They felt he had a higher risk to need TJ and that recovery could be different because of its size.  Investment is about risk & returns, plain and simple.  DD in all deals, whether baseball, energy, or healthcare often has an agreed price which can be adjusted by DD and perceived risk.

On another note, I can't believe (actually I can once I thought about it) how the national press continues to dig in and defend their trash talk of the Astros management last summer.

[roadrunner]

Exactly - the decision to lower the price was about taking on additional risk.  They felt he had a higher risk to need TJ and that recovery could be different because of its size.  Investment is about risk & returns, plain and simple.  DD in all deals, whether baseball, energy, or healthcare often has an agreed price which can be adjusted by DD and perceived risk.

On another note, I can't believe (actually I can once I thought about it) how the national press continues to dig in and defend their trash talk of the Astros management last summer.

Rosenthal and Callis are bad, but Drellich is the worst.  I'm almost embarrassed for these guys because they can't admit the Astros were acting in the best interests of the club and were right.

[juliogotay]

That was my recollection.  Something about an abnormally small ligament, not just a damaged one.  At any rate, I'd be surprised if Callis is correct in his statement that Aiken could still be drafted early.

Wouldn't he now have a normal size ligament? I may not understand the nature of the repair.

[Uncle Charlie]

Wouldn't he now have a normal size ligament? I may not understand the nature of the repair.

Well above my pay grade

[roadrunner]

Hudson Belinsky tweeted last night that he heard from multiple sources that the surgery was not a "cut and dry" TJ surgery, whatever that means.

I'm also not sure who Hudson Belinsky is but for some reason I follow him.

[astrosfan76]

I normally like what he has to say, but I disagree heavily with CJ Nitkowski's take on the situation (the first part is Aiken's statement):

    I can honestly say I don’t regret not signing…it was an informed decision based on circumstances only a few people know the truth about. The money wasn’t the only factor to consider. I wanted to play somewhere I felt comfortable, with a support system I felt would lay the groundwork for a successful and long career…Even now, I know I made the decision that made the most sense for my future.

And here’s Nitkowski’s take on that:

    This is from an 18-year-old kid who turned down $5 million dollars less than a year ago and just had Tommy John surgery. Could the Astros have handled his situation so poorly that even now, with all that has happened, he doesn’t regret taking the last minute offer? Apparently so.

    And that “support system” part? That’s the equivalent of dad saying he’s not mad at you, just disappointed in you. Those sting.

What's he supposed to say, that he really should have taken the money and that he had some measure of guilt with how things played out last year?  Please.  Not only does that imply fault in his camp's behavior, but also that he should have acknowledged then that he was a medical risk.  That's just not going to happen.

As for the "support system" crap, what does that even mean?  He felt pretty comfortable with the organization before the medical or he wouldn't have flown in to sign the contract.  Could the organization have handled some things better?  I would agree that they could have.  But, the nature and context of his comments do nothing to further indemnify them. 

http://blog.chron.com/ultimateastros/2015/03/27/ex-astros-pitcher-aiken-surgery-hardly-a-win-for-team/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter#12840101=0

[pots]

I normally like what he has to say, but I disagree heavily with CJ Nitkowski's take on the situation (the first part is Aiken's statement):

What's he supposed to say, that he really should have taken the money and that he had some measure of guilt with how things played out last year?  Please.  Not only does that imply fault in his camp's behavior, but also that he should have acknowledged then that he was a medical risk.  That's just not going to happen.

As for the "support system" crap, what does that even mean?  He felt pretty comfortable with the organization before the medical or he wouldn't have flown in to sign the contract.  Could the organization have handled some things better?  I would agree that they could have.  But, the nature and context of his comments do nothing to further indemnify them. 

http://blog.chron.com/ultimateastros/2015/03/27/ex-astros-pitcher-aiken-surgery-hardly-a-win-for-team/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter#12840101=0

CJ seems to neglect/forget/whatever that the Astros get the #2 pick this year instead.  No doubt the kid has talent, but no doubt the next kid will too.  And hoepfully (knock knock) a healthy elbow.

[Nate Colbert]

No surprise here given the previous 6-8 week estimate on his back but Kolby Allard says he's likely done for the (HS) season.

[Reuben]

I think what the reaction of Drellich and some others boils down to at this point is basically "Ok, so maybe the Astros had good reason to to do what they did, but... they still, potentially, might have sort of been jerks about it. Ok, maybe not jerks, but at least slightly too business-like and computer-y, and not super-nice warm fuzzy touchy-feely guys like we seem to believe every GM and executive should be."

Would I prefer to have strong reason to believe that the members of the Astros FO are all super-nice, compassionate and considerate guys who go out of their way to treat every player and employee well no matter what? Sure.

Do I need to believe that in order to enjoy rooting for the success of the Houston Astros baseball team? No.

Would them being occasionally less than super-nice, compassionate and considerate, and perhaps a little too focused on conducting business in a business-like fashion make them different from the vast majority of upper-level management people in America? I doubt it.

[Mr. Happy]

I'll be more blunt: Fuck Drellich in his lazy ass. The Astros have been vindicated, and Casey Close's E&O carrier should prepare for a lawsuit. If the Astros actually offered $5,000,000, even after the negative health issue came to the fore, and I have no reason to believe otherwise, you have, repeat have to advise the kid to take the money.

[Nate Colbert]

MLB and MLBPA expect to discuss a pre-draft combine with medicals during negotiations on next CBA.

If anything is ever agreed to, wouldn't happen until 2017 at earliest.

[austro]

MLB and MLBPA expect to discuss a pre-draft combine with medicals during negotiations on next CBA.

If anything is ever agreed to, wouldn't happen until 2017 at earliest.

It's just stunning to me that such an agreement isn't already in place. Would you buy a $5mm house without an inspection? There's no other business in the world that would spend that kind of money without assuring themselves of the soundness of the asset they're acquiring.

Thanks, Bud. At least we got a sure-fire way of determining the home team in the WS.

[pots]

I think what the reaction of Drellich and some others boils down to at this point is basically "Ok, so maybe the Astros had good reason to to do what they did, but... they still, potentially, might have sort of been jerks about it. Ok, maybe not jerks, but at least slightly too business-like and computer-y, and not super-nice warm fuzzy touchy-feely guys like we seem to believe every GM and executive should be."

Would I prefer to have strong reason to believe that the members of the Astros FO are all super-nice, compassionate and considerate guys who go out of their way to treat every player and employee well no matter what? Sure.

Do I need to believe that in order to enjoy rooting for the success of the Houston Astros baseball team? No.

Would them being occasionally less than super-nice, compassionate and considerate, and perhaps a little too focused on conducting business in a business-like fashion make them different from the vast majority of upper-level management people in America? I doubt it.

What it boils down to is people's inability to just say they were wrong.  What troll step is Drellich on?

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend pitching performances and news plus some draft & injury history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--Another Friday, another dominant outing for the athletic Gauchos guy: this one against Long Beach State (9 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 1 W, 10 K). ‏‏@ShotgunSprD1 (definitely want to follow him if you’re a draft junkie and want the latest on West Coast players) tweeted during the game: “Dillon Tate just went with a 3-1 changeup at 88 and then struck out Eric Hutting with a knee-buckling inside slider at 84”. Also tweeted this after game: “It's REALLY hard not to root for a kid like Dillon Tate. He made certain to come over after the game to congratulate [LBS starter and winning pitcher] Kyle Friedrichs.”
• Mike Matuella, Duke RHP--mediocre outing against an 8-13 Boston College squad: 4.2 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 5 W, 6 K.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--tackles Notre Dame on Saturday.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--doesn’t tear the roof off Georgia Tech but a few shingles are missing for the 17-7 Yellow Jackets as the Funkmeister shuts ‘em down (7 IP, 4 piddly singles, 1 ER, 2 W, 7 K). Now 49 Ks in 45 IP in 2015 but 19 W and 5 HBP.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--should take the bump on Saturday versus Tennessee.

Other Pitchers of Interest*

• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--shuts down the rival Vols on Friday night (8 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 3 W, 12 K).
• Phil Bickford, Southern Nevada RHP--faces off against Western Nevada College on Saturday. 36:3 K to W over his last 18 IP (3 starts) and 82:12 in 42 IP for the year.
• Kyle Cody, Kentucky RHP--the 6’7” 245-lb potential 1st-rounder is the likely Sunday starter versus that stout LSU offense. 33rd-rounder out of HS in 2012.
• James Kaprielian, UCLA RHP--effective outing (8 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 1 W, 9 K) against a mediocre 12-12 Washington State team. Now with 55 K’s and just 9 W’s in 46 frames. 40th-rounder in 2012 out of HS.
• Hunter Virant, UCLA LHP--has allowed 10 hits, 3 walks and 1 HBP in 5.1 IP. Did not pitch on Friday. 11th round pick of Astros in 2012. Limited action in 2013 and 2014 in part due to stress fracture in back.
• Mitchell Traver, TCU RHP--mows down (6 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 3 W, 5 K) the Shockers Friday night. Pitched just ⅓ of an inning in 2013 and 2014 due to thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and TJS. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• Riley Ferrell, TCU RHP--the Horned Frogs closer did not see action Friday. The A&M Consolidated HSer with the high 90s FB has struck out 20 in 11.2 IP this year while allowing just 2 hits.
• Alex Young, TCU LHP--Sunday starter vs Wichita State.
• Tyler Alexander, TCU LHP--a mid-week starter in name only given the deep Horned Frogs pitching staff, the draft-eligible sophomore shut down the Sooners (7 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 0 W, 5 K) on Tuesday. Incredibly, has yet to walk a batter this season in 27.2 IP with 24 Ks. 23rd round pick in 2013.
• Grayson Long, Aggie RHP--a respectable outing for the Houston area native on Friday against Mizzou (5 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 2 W, 7 K).
• Joseph Shaw, DBU RHP--Friday night starter for the Patriots gives up a couple of runs in 6 innings of work against Illinois State. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• Brandon Koch, DBU RHP--the Patriots closer stayed in the bullpen Friday. 24:4 K/W in 10.1 IP in ‘15.
• Andrew Suarez, Miami LHP--should throw Saturday against North Carolina. Missed several starts earlier with a strained oblique. The 2nd highest pick from 2014 to not sign (57th overall, Nationals).
• Brandon Waddell, Virginia LHP--Sunday start for the 6’3” hurler against the Fighting Irish. Houston area native out of Clear Lake HS.
• Matthew Crownover, Clemson LHP--RS junior entered this weekend with a 42:11 strikeout to walk ratio in 41.1 IP this season and was coming off a really strong outing against Virginia Tech last weekend where he went 8.1 scoreless. Not so good tonight against the Demon Deacons: 5.2 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 4 W, 5 K. Had TJS in 2012. Unsigned 21st round selection in 2014.
• Trey Killian, Arkansas RHP--off kilter on Friday night (5 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 5 W, 6 K) against Ole Miss. Was shut down the early part of the season recovering from tendonitis in his right elbow first suffered while pitching for Team USA last summer.
• Tyler Jay, Illinois LHP--the closer for the Fighting Illini and possible 1st-round pick has 28 whiffs versus just 3 walks in 26.1 innings on the season and a nifty .151 BAA. Weekend series with Michigan State starts on Saturday.
• Kyle Twomey, USC LHP--named the 14th-best prospect in the Cape Cod League this past summer by Baseball America, the Trojan starter has 31 punchouts and 10 walks in 36.1 IP. Will throw on Saturday against Washington. 3rd round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Ryan Burr, ASU RHP--the Sun Devils closer was not used on Friday night against Stanford. Hasn’t allowed an earned run this season while whiffing an incredible 33 hitters in 16.2 frames. Has walked 9 this year after walking 38 in 44 IP last year. 33rd round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Trevor Megill, LMU RHP--should pitch on Sunday against Gonzaga. The 3rd highest pick from 2014 to not sign (3rd round-104th overall, Cardinals). Missed all of 2014 after undergoing TJS.
• Josh Staumont, Azusa Pacific RHP--last week Hawai’i Hilo, this week Hawai’i Pacific. Wild Thing notches victories in consecutive weekends against both with the performance this time a bit more restrained for him at least in the strikeout dept. (7 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 5 W, 6 K). For the year? 63 strikeouts, 34 walks, 39 innings.
• Cody Ponce, Cal Poly Pomona RHP--the “other” top-rated DII guy and possible 1st round pick presumably will pitch one of the DH games on Saturday against Cal State Dominguez Hills. Has missed three starts this season with shoulder fatigue.
• David Hill, San Diego RHP--might be the best performing starter this side of Dillon Tate. Gem against BYU this week (8 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 10 K). Over his last 3 outings: 25 IP, 13 H, 2 ER, 6 W, 31 K.
• Andrew Moore, Oregon State RHP--was effective for 6 innings on Friday against Cal Poly allowing just 2 runs but the 7th frame was a bit nastier as 2 additional runners scored after he left with 1 out in the inning. Makes it now 47 strikeouts and just 7 walks in 53 innings in 2015.
• Bubba Derby, SDSU RHP--undersized hurler had a so-so outing Friday vs UNLV (6 IP, 5 H, 4 ER, 3 W, 6 K) which is atypical in a season where he has a 63:10 K/W ratio in 45.1 IP.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, “helium” guys, guys just for the hell of it, etc.

Senior Slot Signs

• Benton Moss, North Carolina RHP--34:4 K/W in just 21.2 IP this season. Should start Saturday or Sunday against a tough Miami Hurricanes club. Has missed time this season with a forearm strain. Unsigned 15th rounder from 2014.
• Parker French, Longhorn RHP--perhaps the only good thing that can be said about Friday’s start against Nebraska is that he didn’t throw a whole lot of pitches (4.1 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, 0 W, 3 K). Unsigned 19th rounder from 2014.
• David Berg, UCLA RHP--the Bruins sidearming closer retired the Cougars 1-2-3 in the 9th with 2 K’s to pick up his 5th save of 2015. 34:2 K/W in 23.2 IP.  Unsigned 17th rounder from 2014.
• Bobby Poyner, Florida LHP--the Gators reliever entered the weekend with 28 strikeouts and just one walk in 26.1 IP. Did not pitch on Friday.
• Kyle Friedrichs, Long Beach State RHP--out-dueled Dillon Tate on Friday night (9 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 0 W, 13 K) and I’m sure caught some additional scouts’ eyes. UCSB managed just 1 FB off him. Has a fantastic 61 strikeouts and just 5 walks in 45.1 IP this season. Was the Dirtbag closer in 2012 (and a darned-good one) before going under the knife (TJS) and missing all of 2013. Pitched just 26 innings in a recovery season in 2014.

Injured

• A.J. Minter, Aggie LHP--out for season with TJS. Limited to just 37 innings in 2013 and 2014 in part due to thoracic outlet syndrome.
• Tyler Stubblefield, Aggie LHP--out indefinitely with torn ACL.
• Colin Poche, DBU LHP--the former Razorback pitcher and 5th-round pick of the Orioles in 2012 is out for the season with TJS.
• Mac Marshall, Chipola LHP--out 6 weeks with a broken thumb. 21st round selection of Astros in 2014.
• Jon Duplantier, Rice RHP--out indefinitely with shoulder issue.
• Jake Lemoine, Coogs RHP--out several weeks with shoulder impingement.

[roadrunner]

I think what the reaction of Drellich and some others boils down to at this point is basically "Ok, so maybe the Astros had good reason to to do what they did, but... they still, potentially, might have sort of been jerks about it. Ok, maybe not jerks, but at least slightly too business-like and computer-y, and not super-nice warm fuzzy touchy-feely guys like we seem to believe every GM and executive should be."

Would I prefer to have strong reason to believe that the members of the Astros FO are all super-nice, compassionate and considerate guys who go out of their way to treat every player and employee well no matter what? Sure.

Do I need to believe that in order to enjoy rooting for the success of the Houston Astros baseball team? No.

Would them being occasionally less than super-nice, compassionate and considerate, and perhaps a little too focused on conducting business in a business-like fashion make them different from the vast majority of upper-level management people in America? I doubt it.

It is strange to me how much the media tries to paint the Astros as evil villains.  I guess that article Drellich wrote about the Astros treating players like assets got a lot of clicks and the momentum just built from there, but it's mindboggling even now how stubborn they are about this Aiken situation. 

At least some are starting to realize it's getting out of hand.  Brian Kenny wrote an apology to the Astros in a sportsonearth article, and Craig Calcaterra had a great tweet yesterday saying the Astros caused 9/11.  All of the attention has made me root even harder for the Astros if anything just as a fuck you to the media.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend pitching performances and news plus some draft & injury history (including Saturday updates):

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--Another Friday, another dominant outing for the athletic Gauchos guy: this one against Long Beach State (9 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 1 W, 10 K). ‏‏@ShotgunSprD1 (definitely want to follow him if you’re a draft junkie and want the latest on West Coast players) tweeted during the game: “Dillon Tate just went with a 3-1 changeup at 88 and then struck out Eric Hutting with a knee-buckling inside slider at 84”. Also tweeted this after game: “It's REALLY hard not to root for a kid like Dillon Tate. He made certain to come over after the game to congratulate [LBS starting pitcher] Kyle Friedrichs.”
• Mike Matuella, Duke RHP--mediocre outing against an 8-13 Boston College squad: 4.2 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 5 W, 6 K. Has missed time this spring with forearm tightness. Previously diagnosed with spondylolysis condition.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--tackles Notre Dame on Saturday. The Fighting Irish were a little less so after Kirby got done with ‘em (6 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 2 W, 8 K). 62 Ks in 44.2 innings on the year despite the 21 Ws.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--doesn’t tear the roof off Georgia Tech but a few shingles are missing for the 17-7 Yellow Jackets as the Funkmeister shuts ‘em down (7 IP, 4 piddly singles, 1 ER, 2 W, 7 K). Now 49 Ks in 45 IP in 2015 but 19 W and 5 HBP.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--should take the bump on Saturday versus Tennessee. No earned runs in 5.2 IP with 7 Ks and 0 Ws but 7 hits allowed including 4 XBH. Missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness.

Other Pitchers of Interest*

• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--shuts down the rival Vols on Friday night (8 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 3 W, 12 K).
• Phil Bickford, Southern Nevada RHP--faces off against Western Nevada College on Saturday. Roughed up some, giving up 8 hits (including 3 doubles, 1 triple and 1 homer) in 5.2 IP although he did strike out 7 while walking 1. 1st round selection by Blue Jays (10th overall) out of HS in 2013.
• Kyle Cody, Kentucky RHP--the 6’7” 245-lb potential 1st-rounder is the likely Sunday starter versus that stout LSU offense. 33rd-rounder out of HS in 2012.
• James Kaprielian, UCLA RHP--effective outing (8 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 1 W, 9 K) against a mediocre 12-12 Washington State team. Now with 55 K’s and just 9 W’s in 46 frames. 40th-rounder in 2012 out of HS.
• Hunter Virant, UCLA LHP--has allowed 10 hits, 3 walks and 1 HBP in 5.1 IP. Did not pitch on Friday or Saturday. 11th round pick of Astros in 2012. Limited action in 2013 and 2014 in part due to stress fracture in back.
• Mitchell Traver, TCU RHP--mows down (6 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 3 W, 5 K) the Shockers Friday night. Pitched just ⅓ of an inning in 2013 and 2014 due to thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and TJS. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• Riley Ferrell, TCU RHP--the Horned Frogs closer did not see action Friday but struck out the side in the 9th on Saturday vs Wichita State. The A&M Consolidated HSer with the high 90s FB has struck out 23 in 12.2 IP this year while allowing just 2 hits.
• Alex Young, TCU LHP--Sunday starter vs Wichita State.
• Tyler Alexander, TCU LHP--a mid-week starter in name only given the deep Horned Frogs pitching staff, the draft-eligible sophomore shut down the Sooners (7 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 0 W, 5 K) on Tuesday. Incredibly, has yet to walk a batter this season in 27.2 IP with 24 Ks. 23rd round pick in 2013.
• Grayson Long, Aggie RHP--a respectable outing for the Houston area native on Friday against Mizzou (5 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 2 W, 7 K).
• Joseph Shaw, DBU RHP--Friday night starter for the Patriots gives up a couple of runs in 6 innings of work against Illinois State. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• Brandon Koch, DBU RHP--the Patriots closer stayed in the bullpen Friday but went 2 scoreless frames Saturday with 3 Ws and 2 Ks. 26:7 K/W in 12.1 IP in ‘15.
• Andrew Suarez, Miami LHP--should throw Saturday against North Carolina. Went just 3 innings against the Tar Heels while allowing 4 hits and 4 walks. Threw 60 pitches after throwing 70 and 82 pitches, respectively, in his previous two outings after missing several starts earlier with a strained oblique. The 2nd highest pick from 2014 to not sign (57th overall, Nationals).
• Brandon Waddell, Virginia LHP--Sunday start for the 6’3” hurler against the Fighting Irish. Houston area native out of Clear Lake HS.
• Matthew Crownover, Clemson LHP--RS junior entered this weekend with a 42:11 strikeout to walk ratio in 41.1 IP this season and was coming off a really strong outing against Virginia Tech last weekend where he went 8.1 scoreless. Not so good Friday against the Demon Deacons: 5.2 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 4 W, 5 K. Had TJS in 2012. Unsigned 21st round selection in 2014.
• Trey Killian, Arkansas RHP--off kilter on Friday night (5 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 5 W, 6 K) against Ole Miss. Was shut down the early part of the season recovering from tendonitis in his right elbow first suffered while pitching for Team USA last summer.
• Tyler Jay, Illinois LHP--the closer for the Fighting Illini and possible 1st-round pick has 28 whiffs versus just 3 walks in 26.1 innings on the season and a nifty .151 BAA. Weekend series with Michigan State starts on Saturday. Picked up his 6th save Saturday with 1.1 scoreless frames.
• Kyle Twomey, USC LHP--named the 14th-best prospect in the Cape Cod League this past summer by Baseball America, the Trojan starter has 31 punchouts and 10 walks in 36.1 IP. Will throw on Saturday against Washington. Somehow overcame 7 walks and 4 hits allowed in that game to shutout the Huskies over 7 innings. 3rd round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Justin Jacome, UCSB LHP--named the 25th-best prospect in the Cape Cod League this past summer by Baseball America, the lanky 6’6” Gauchos hurler shut down Long Beach State on Saturday in a CG effort (9 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 2 W, 12 K). 49 K to 13 W in 48.2 IP this year.
• Ryan Burr, ASU RHP--the Sun Devils closer was not used on Friday night against Stanford. Retired all 5 batters he faced on Saturday with a 95-96 FB to clinch 9th save. Hasn’t allowed an earned run this season while whiffing an incredible 35 hitters in 18.1 frames. Has walked 9 this year after walking 38 in 44 IP last year. 33rd round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Trevor Megill, LMU RHP--threw Saturday night against Gonzaga (3.1 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 2 W, 3 K). The 3rd highest pick from 2014 to not sign (3rd round-104th overall, Cardinals). Missed all of 2014 after undergoing TJS.
• Josh Staumont, Azusa Pacific RHP--last week Hawai’i Hilo, this week Hawai’i Pacific. Wild Thing notches victories in consecutive weekends against both with the performance this time a bit more restrained for him at least in the strikeout dept. (7 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 5 W, 6 K). For the year? 63 strikeouts, 34 walks, 39 innings.
• Cody Ponce, Cal Poly Pomona RHP--the “other” top-rated DII guy and possible 1st round pick. Against Cal State Dominguez Hills on Saturday, obviously remains on a restricted pitch count as he threw just 53 pitches in four IP. He racked up five strikeouts and allowed just one walk and three hits. Has missed three starts this season with shoulder fatigue.
• David Hill, San Diego RHP--might be the best performing starter this side of Dillon Tate. Gem against BYU this week (8 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 10 K). Over his last 3 outings: 25 IP, 13 H, 2 ER, 6 W, 31 K.
• Andrew Moore, Oregon State RHP--was effective for 6 innings on Friday against Cal Poly allowing just 2 runs but the 7th frame was a bit nastier as 2 additional runners scored after he left with 1 out in the inning. Makes it now 47 strikeouts and just 7 walks in 53 innings in 2015.
• Bubba Derby, SDSU RHP--undersized hurler had a so-so outing Friday vs UNLV (6 IP, 5 H, 4 ER, 3 W, 6 K) which is atypical in a season where he has a 63:10 K/W ratio in 45.1 IP.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, “helium” guys, guys just for the hell of it, etc.

Senior Slot Signs

• Benton Moss, North Carolina RHP--34:4 K/W in just 21.2 IP this season. Should start Sunday against the Miami Hurricanes. Has missed time this season with a forearm strain. Unsigned 15th rounder from 2014.
• Parker French, Longhorn RHP--perhaps the only good thing that can be said about Friday’s start against Nebraska is that he didn’t throw a whole lot of pitches (4.1 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, 0 W, 3 K). Unsigned 19th rounder from 2014.
• David Berg, UCLA RHP--the Bruins sidearming closer retired the Cougars 1-2-3 in the 9th with 2 K’s to pick up his 5th save of 2015. Did exactly the same on Saturday for save #6. 36:2 K/W in 24.2 IP. Unsigned 17th rounder from 2014.
• Bobby Poyner, Florida LHP--the Gators reliever entered the weekend with 28 strikeouts and just one walk in 26.1 IP. Did not pitch this weekend.
• Kyle Friedrichs, Long Beach State RHP--out-dueled Dillon Tate on Friday night (9 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 0 W, 13 K) and I’m sure caught some additional scouts’ eyes. UCSB managed just 1 FB off him. Has a fantastic 61 strikeouts and just 5 walks in 45.1 IP this season. Was the Dirtbag closer in 2012 (and a darned-good one) before going under the knife (TJS) and missing all of 2013. Pitched just 26 innings in a recovery season in 2014.

Injured

• A.J. Minter, Aggie LHP--out for season with TJS. Limited to just 37 innings in 2013 and 2014 in part due to thoracic outlet syndrome. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Tyler Stubblefield, Aggie LHP--the draft-eligible sophomore is out indefinitely with a torn ACL. 36th round pick in 2013 out of Lufkin HS.
• Colin Poche, DBU LHP--the former Razorback pitcher and 5th-round pick of the Orioles in 2012 is out for the season with TJS.
• Mac Marshall, Chipola LHP--out 6 weeks with a broken thumb. 21st round selection of Astros in 2014.
• Jon Duplantier, Rice RHP--draft-eligible sophomore out indefinitely with shoulder issue.
• Jake Lemoine, Coogs RHP--out several weeks with shoulder impingement. 21st round selection in 2012 out of HS.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Would you buy a $5mm house without an inspection?

One might agree on a price, then have an inspection. If the inspection turned up that the house had a bad elbow joints in all the plumbing then the sale would be either voided or the price renegotiated. I guessing of course--never tried to buy a $5MM house.

[mrpink]

One might agree on a price, then have an inspection. If the inspection turned up that the house had a bad elbow joints in all the plumbing then the sale would be either voided or the price renegotiated. I guessing of course--never tried to buy a $5MM house.

I thought that's what Alkie charged you for his.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend pitching performances and news plus some draft & injury history (including Sunday updates):

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--Another Friday, another dominant outing for the athletic Gauchos guy: this one against Long Beach State (9 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 1 W, 10 K). ‏‏@ShotgunSprD1 (definitely want to follow him if you’re a draft junkie and want the latest on West Coast players) tweeted during the game: “Dillon Tate just went with a 3-1 changeup at 88 and then struck out Eric Hutting with a knee-buckling inside slider at 84”. Also tweeted this after game: “It's REALLY hard not to root for a kid like Dillon Tate. He made certain to come over after the game to congratulate [LBS starting pitcher] Kyle Friedrichs.”
• Mike Matuella, Duke RHP--mediocre outing against an 8-13 Boston College squad: 4.2 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 5 W, 6 K. Has missed time this spring with forearm tightness. Previously diagnosed with spondylolysis condition.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--tackles Notre Dame on Saturday. The Fighting Irish were a little less so after Kirby got done with ‘em (6 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 2 W, 8 K). 62 Ks in 44.2 innings on the year despite the 21 Ws.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--doesn’t tear the roof off Georgia Tech but a few shingles are missing for the 17-7 Yellow Jackets as the Funkmeister shuts ‘em down (7 IP, 4 piddly singles, 1 ER, 2 W, 7 K). Now 49 Ks in 45 IP in 2015 but 19 W and 5 HBP.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--should take the bump on Saturday versus Tennessee. No earned runs in 5.2 IP with 7 Ks and 0 Ws but 7 hits allowed including 4 XBH. Missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness.

Other Pitchers of Interest*

• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--shuts down the rival Vols on Friday night (8 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 3 W, 12 K).
• Phil Bickford, Southern Nevada RHP--faced off against Western Nevada College on Saturday. Roughed up some, giving up 8 hits (including 3 doubles, 1 triple and 1 homer) in 5.2 IP although he did strike out 7 while walking 1. 1st round selection by Blue Jays (10th overall) out of HS in 2013.
• Kyle Cody, Kentucky RHP--the 6’7” 245-lb potential 1st-rounder is the likely Sunday starter versus that stout LSU offense. Struggled against ranked Ole Miss last week and does the same against the #1 Tigers (5 IP, 8 H, 5 ER, 0 W, 3 K). 33rd-rounder out of HS in 2012.
• James Kaprielian, UCLA RHP--effective outing (8 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 1 W, 9 K) against a mediocre 12-12 Washington State team. Now with 55 K’s and just 9 W’s in 46 frames. 40th-rounder in 2012 out of HS.
• Hunter Virant, UCLA LHP--entered the weekend having allowed 10 hits, 3 walks and 1 HBP in 5.1 IP. Did not pitch on Friday or Saturday. Struck out the only Washington State batter he faced Sunday. 11th round pick of Astros in 2012. Limited action in 2013 and 2014 in part due to stress fracture in back.
• Mitchell Traver, TCU RHP--mows down (6 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 3 W, 5 K) the Shockers Friday night. Pitched just ⅓ of an inning in 2013 and 2014 due to thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and TJS. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• Riley Ferrell, TCU RHP--the Horned Frogs closer did not see action Friday but struck out the side in the 9th on Saturday vs Wichita State. The A&M Consolidated HSer with the high 90s FB has struck out 23 in 12.2 IP this year while allowing just 2 hits.
• Alex Young, TCU LHP--Sunday starter vs Wichita State. Nice bounceback outing against Wichita State (7 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 0 W, 9 K) after tough start last week. Now 38 strikeouts and just 7 walks in 36.2 IP this year.
• Tyler Alexander, TCU LHP--a mid-week starter in name only given the deep Horned Frogs pitching staff, the draft-eligible sophomore shut down the Sooners (7 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 0 W, 5 K) on Tuesday. Incredibly, has yet to walk a batter this season in 27.2 IP with 24 Ks. 23rd round pick in 2013.
• Grayson Long, Aggie RHP--a respectable outing for the Houston area native on Friday against Mizzou (5 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 2 W, 7 K).
• Joseph Shaw, DBU RHP--Friday night starter for the Patriots gives up a couple of runs in 6 innings of work against Illinois State. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• Brandon Koch, DBU RHP--the Patriots closer stayed in the bullpen Friday but went 2 scoreless frames Saturday with 3 Ws and 2 Ks. 26:7 K/W in 12.1 IP in ‘15.
• Andrew Suarez, Miami LHP--threw Saturday against North Carolina. Went just 3 innings against the Tar Heels while allowing 4 hits and 4 walks. Threw 60 pitches after throwing 70 and 82 pitches, respectively, in his previous two outings after missing several starts earlier with a strained oblique. The 2nd highest pick from 2014 to not sign (57th overall, Nationals).
• Brandon Waddell, Virginia LHP--Sunday start for the 6’3” hurler against the Fighting Irish. Solid outing (5.1 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 2 W, K 3) versus ND. Now has a 34:14 K/W ratio in 36.1 IP. Houston area native out of Clear Lake HS.
• Matthew Crownover, Clemson LHP--RS junior entered this weekend with a 42:11 strikeout to walk ratio in 41.1 IP this season and was coming off a really strong outing against Virginia Tech last weekend where he went 8.1 scoreless. Not so good Friday against the Demon Deacons: 5.2 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 4 W, 5 K. Had TJS in 2012. Unsigned 21st round selection in 2014.
• Trey Killian, Arkansas RHP--off kilter on Friday night (5 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 5 W, 6 K) against Ole Miss. Was shut down the early part of the season recovering from tendonitis in his right elbow first suffered while pitching for Team USA last summer.
• Tyler Jay, Illinois LHP--the closer for the Fighting Illini and possible 1st-round pick has 28 whiffs versus just 3 walks in 26.1 innings on the season and a nifty .151 BAA. Weekend series with Michigan State started on Saturday. Picked up his 6th save Saturday with 1.1 scoreless frames.
• Kyle Twomey, USC LHP--named the 14th-best prospect in the Cape Cod League this past summer by Baseball America, the Trojan starter has 31 punchouts and 10 walks in 36.1 IP. Threw on Saturday against Washington. Somehow overcame 7 walks and 4 hits allowed in that game to shutout the Huskies over 7 innings. 3rd round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Justin Jacome, UCSB LHP--named the 25th-best prospect in the Cape Cod League this past summer by Baseball America, the lanky 6’6” Gauchos hurler shut down Long Beach State on Saturday in a CG effort (9 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 2 W, 12 K). 49 K to 13 W in 48.2 IP this year.
• Ryan Burr, ASU RHP--the Sun Devils closer was not used on Friday night against Stanford. Retired all 5 batters he faced on Saturday with a 95-96 FB to clinch 9th save. Picked up 10th save on Sunday in 1.1 IP but did allow his first earned run of the year. Has now whiffed an incredible 38 hitters in 19.2 frames. Has walked 9 this year after walking 38 in 44 IP last year. 33rd round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Trevor Megill, LMU RHP--threw Saturday night against Gonzaga (3.1 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 2 W, 3 K). The 3rd highest pick from 2014 to not sign (3rd round-104th overall, Cardinals). Missed all of 2014 after undergoing TJS.
• Josh Staumont, Azusa Pacific RHP--last week Hawai’i Hilo, this week Hawai’i Pacific. Wild Thing notches victories in consecutive weekends against both with the performance this time a bit more restrained for him at least in the strikeout dept. (7 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 5 W, 6 K). For the year? 63 strikeouts, 34 walks, 39 innings.
• Cody Ponce, Cal Poly Pomona RHP--the “other” top-rated DII guy and possible 1st round pick. Against Cal State Dominguez Hills on Saturday, obviously remains on a restricted pitch count as he threw just 53 pitches in four IP. He racked up five strikeouts and allowed just one walk and three hits. Has missed three starts this season with shoulder fatigue.
• David Hill, San Diego RHP--might be the best performing starter this side of Dillon Tate. Gem against BYU this week (8 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 W, 10 K). Over his last 3 outings: 25 IP, 13 H, 2 ER, 6 W, 31 K.
• Andrew Moore, Oregon State RHP--was effective for 6 innings on Friday against Cal Poly allowing just 2 runs but the 7th frame was a bit nastier as 2 additional runners scored after he left with 1 out in the inning. Makes it now 47 strikeouts and just 7 walks in 53 innings in 2015.
• Bubba Derby, SDSU RHP--undersized hurler had a so-so outing Friday vs UNLV (6 IP, 5 H, 4 ER, 3 W, 6 K) which is atypical in a season where he has a 63:10 K/W ratio in 45.1 IP.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, “helium” guys, guys just for the hell of it, etc.

Senior Slot Signs

• Benton Moss, North Carolina RHP--entered the weekend with a 34:4 K/W in just 21.2 IP this season. Did a nice job on Sunday shutting down (6 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 2 W, 4 K) a good Miami Hurricanes squad. Has missed time this season with a forearm strain. Unsigned 15th rounder from 2014.
• Parker French, Longhorn RHP--perhaps the only good thing that can be said about Friday’s start against Nebraska is that he didn’t throw a whole lot of pitches (4.1 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, 0 W, 3 K). Unsigned 19th rounder from 2014.
• David Berg, UCLA RHP--the Bruins sidearming closer retired the Cougars 1-2-3 in the 9th Friday with 2 K’s to pick up his 5th save of 2015. Struck out 2 in a scoreless 9th Saturday and then worked an additional 2 scoreless innings on Sunday for save #6. 36:3 K/W in 26.2 IP. Unsigned 17th rounder from 2014.
• Bobby Poyner, Florida LHP--the Gators reliever entered the weekend with 28 strikeouts and just one walk in 26.1 IP. Did not pitch this weekend.
• Kyle Friedrichs, Long Beach State RHP--out-dueled Dillon Tate on Friday night (9 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 0 W, 13 K) and I’m sure caught some additional scouts’ eyes. UCSB managed just 1 FB off him. Has a fantastic 61 strikeouts and just 5 walks in 45.1 IP this season. Was the Dirtbag closer in 2012 (and a darned-good one) before going under the knife (TJS) and missing all of 2013. Pitched just 26 innings in a recovery season in 2014.

Injured

• A.J. Minter, Aggie LHP--out for season with TJS. Limited to just 37 innings in 2013 and 2014 in part due to thoracic outlet syndrome. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Tyler Stubblefield, Aggie LHP--the draft-eligible sophomore is out indefinitely with a torn ACL. 36th round pick in 2013 out of Lufkin HS.
• Colin Poche, DBU LHP--the former Razorback pitcher and 5th-round pick of the Orioles in 2012 is out for the season with TJS.
• Mac Marshall, Chipola LHP--out 6 weeks with a broken thumb. 21st round selection of Astros in 2014.
• Jon Duplantier, Rice RHP--draft-eligible sophomore out indefinitely with shoulder issue.
• Jake Lemoine, Coogs RHP--out several weeks with shoulder impingement. 21st round selection in 2012 out of HS.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend hitting performances & news plus some draft & injury history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--relatively quiet weekend for him against the Vols with 1 double and a couple of walks. Now .351/.467/.568 for the year.

Other Hitters of Interest*

• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--had what for him was a disappointing series against Kentucky going 2-14 with 2 walks which dropped his season numbers to .304/.373/.557. Just 3 strikeouts in 115 ABs.
• Kevin Newman, Arizona SS--had a 3-10 weekend against Oregon and reached on a walk and a HBP. Currently at .426/.474/.530.
• Richie Martin, Florida SS--went 4-12 with a home run (#2) and a steal (#10) against Alabama. Upped his numbers to .296/.402/.426. 16 walks versus 11 strikeouts in 108 ABs.
• Mikey White, Alabama SS--against the Gators, a 2-12 weekend and reached on a plunk. Still impressive numbers for the season: .379/.460/.642.
• Blake Trahan, La-Lafayette SS--weekend series vs Arkansas State included a 3-10 at the plate with 3 walks, 3 SBs and reached on a HBP. Slash line for the year clocks in at .385/.500/.521 with 9 steals (but he’s been thrown out 7 times).
• C.J. Hinojosa, Longhorn SS--Horns got swept by the Huskers and their usually excellent shortstop was a major contributing factor in those losses. Went 0-13 at the plate as his offensive struggles in 2015 continue (just .200/.306/.314 on the year). Even made 3 errors in the series. 26th round pick of the Astros in 2012.
• Kal Simmons, Kennesaw State SS--The switch-hitter was ranked by BA as the 22nd best prospect in the Cape Cod League (CCL) last summer. Against USC Upstate (yes, University of South Carolina Upstate does actually exist), went 4-14 over the weekend with 2 walks and a grand slam. That was his 8th longball and now has an impressive .300/.389/.555 line on the year with 13 walks versus just 12 strikeouts in 110 ABs.
• Kyle Holder, San Diego SS--went 7-10 in the 3 games against BYU with 4 walks, 2 doubles and a triple. For 2015, pushes his numbers to .389/.458/.484 with 11 walks and just 6 strikeouts in 95 ABs.
• Jose Vizcaino Jr, Santa Clara SS--versus U of Pacific, continued to rake by going 6-13 with a triple, 2 HRs and 2 SBs. Updated 2015 stats: .375/.457/.725. Missed 5 games earlier in the season with a hand injury. 36th-rounder back in 2012 by the Dodgers (who his dad then and now works for).
• David Fletcher, LMU SS--went 4-13 with a walk, double and SB versus Gonzaga putting him at .351/.438/.486 and 10-11 in steals for the year. Draft-eligible sophomore who had an outstanding freshman season (.329/.362/.374 with 17 steals in 21 attempts) for the Lions, starting and playing in all 56 games.
• Daniel Pinero, Virginia SS--had a 4-12 weekend against Notre Dame with 2 walks and a SB. Currently at .304/.395/.451 in 2015. A big boy at the position at a listed 6’5” and has made 9 errors in 26 games (had just 9 miscues all of last season). Reached 44 times on walks and HBPs in 2014 as a freshman even though his overall numbers weren’t impressive (.261/.372/.286). The fact that he came in to a top-level program like the Cavaliers and started all 68 games as a freshman is notable to say the least. 20th round pick of the Astros in 2013 and a draft-eligible sophomore this season.
• Kevin Kramer, UCLA SS--the Bruins leadoff hitter had a 4-13 series with 3 walks and 1 HBP running his numbers to .410/.512/.629 on the year. RS junior who missed all of the 2014 season after undergoing shoulder surgery. 25th round selection in 2011 draft out of HS.
• Scott Kingery, Arizona 2B--continues to motor along with a 4-8 weekend against the Ducks with a triple, homer (#2), walk and a SB. Now batting a nifty .453/.492/.650.
• Mark Mathias, Cal Poly 2B--for the second weekend in a row, the Mustangs played a PAC-12 opponent. After USC last week, it was Oregon State on tap this time out. Mathias went 3-13 against the Beavers with a pair of walks. Currently at .338/.405/.394 in 17 games. Missed 7 games at the beginning of 2015 as he works his way back from offseason shoulder surgery and has been DHing since.
• Brandon Lowe, Maryland 2B--Draft-eligible sophomore who had a sensational freshman season for the Terrapins batting .348/.464/.464. Looks like he’s gonna smash through those numbers this year. He blasted his 5th longball this weekend against Michigan and is at .381/.492/.670 for the season with 18 walks compared to 12 strikeouts in 97 ABs.
• Hutton Moyer, Pepperdine 2B--went 6-14 with 2 walks against Portland with a pair of doubles and a pair of triples. His slash line improves to .290/.395/.523.
• David Thompson, Miami 1B/3B--no longballs this weekend but extended hitting streak to 18 games by going 4-11 with 2 walks against North Carolina. And for the year: .357/.449/.688 with the 8 longballs. Surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome and the recovery therefrom resulted in a down year at the plate last year (no home runs) but he’s healthy now.
• Michael Foster, Northeastern INF/OF--had a 6-13 series against Delaware with a steal and reached on a HBP to continue his hot 2015 pace. Now at .420/.476/.614 in 23 games with 6 SBs in 7 attempts. RS junior who was selected by the Astros in the 38th round last year after a .299/.369/.394 season.
• Edwin Rios, FIU INF/OF--the lefty swinger had 2 more deep flies this weekend to give him 8 HRs for the year. Also walked 4 times and singled. Now at .276/.400/.582 on the year. Had a tremendous freshman campaign for the Panthers at .332/.412/.548 before declining to .296/.341/.400 last year. Kissimmee area native.
• Ian Happ, Cincinnati INF/OF--the switch-hitter had a down series for him going just 2-10 with 3 walks against South Florida. He’s “slumped” to .393/.509/.708. Currently playing CF for the Bearcats, there’s some debate as to where his future position lies in the pros.
• Harrison Bader, Florida OF--nice weekend against Bama going 4-11 with a homer (#8) and 2 walks to maintain eye-popping numbers at .367/.491/.733.
• DJ Stewart, FSU OF--facing Virginia Tech, went 2-10 with 5 walks/HBPs. Season to date: .277/.507/.596 with 38 walks and 27 whiffs.
• Christin Stewart, Tennessee OF--so how’d he do against Fulmer, Buehler and Co? Not good at all. Just 1-12 with 6 whiffs. The slash line of course took a beating: .289/.423/.590.
• Chris Shaw, Boston College 1B/OF--the 13th ranked prospect in the CCL this past summer (per BA) and potential 1st rounder banged out his 7th HR of the year while going 4-12 and helping the Eagles to a sweep of Duke over the weekend. Currently at .273/.375/.557. 26th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Logan Taylor, Texas A&M OF--the three-game set vs Mizzou was very productive for him as he goes 7-11 with a walk, dinger and SB. The numbers of course took a rise: .359/.433/.620.
• Rhett Wiseman, Vanderbilt OF--a 4-15 weekend against Tennessee with no XBH. Still great numbers at .367/.453/.592 but considerably less sparkling than a couple of weeks ago.
• Ben Johnson, Longhorn OF--along with a SB and reaching on a plunk, had a 4-13 weekend against Nebraska. Former Westwood High QB is currently at .383/.427/.600.
• Ty Moore, UCLA OF--had a 3-10 weekend versus Washington State with a double and 2 walks/HBPs. Slash line is currently .384/.466/.535. 25th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Reese Cooley, Chipola OF--hit two more HRs this week and has now cranked out 6 bombs in his last 12 games. Unsigned 26th rounder from 2014 out of HS.
• Isiah Gilliam, Chipola 1B/OF--has an 8-game hitting streak in which he’s batting .400 (14-35) with 5 doubles. Unsigned 23rd rounder from 2014 out of HS.

*Guys just a hair outside the top five picks (at least for now), guys who might be available at #37 and #46, re-draft possibilities, local (i.e. Texas) guys, “helium” guys, guys just for the hell of it, etc.

Senior Slot Signs

• Zack Zehner, Cal Poly OF--a productive 3 games against Oregon State with 3 hits (including 2 bombs, numbers 4 & 5) and 3 walks in 14 plate appearances. The slash line is showing some life: .250/.320/.500. The 5th highest pick from 2014 to not sign (7th round, Blue Jays).
• Austin Byler, Nevada 1B--had a 5-9 series with 6 walks/HBPs plus 2 doubles and a HR (#7) at San Jose State. Currently .355/.547/.720. Has 29 walks but has whiffed 30 times in 93 ABs. Seems to be competing with DJ Stewart as to who can lead the nation in walks AND strikeouts. The 6th highest pick from 2014 to not sign (9th round, Nationals).
• Kyle Martin, South Carolina 1B--had a bang-up weekend vs Georgia by going 5-10 with 5 walks, a triple, 2 HRs (#5 & #6) and 2 swipes. For 2015, the lefty hitter is at a very cool .392/.472/.657 and still has just 9 strikeouts (in 102 ABs) versus 17 walks. Unsigned 20th rounder from 2014.
• Chris Keck, UCLA 3B--went 4-11 with a double and 2 walks against Washington State in a year in which he’s hitting .333/.431/625. Went undrafted in 2014 after his junior year, a combination of zero career HRs as a Bruin and a blood clot in his arm that caused him to miss the final 6 weeks of the season.
• A.J. Murray, Georgia Tech C/1B--not as rough as last weekend but still the 2-11 versus Louisville (including an Ofer on Friday against Funkhouser) isn’t too great. Drops him down for the year to a still very respectable .290/.397/.580 (though with 32 strikeouts in 100 ABs). 48th round selection by the Astros in 2011 out of HS.
• Kade Scivicque, LSU C--had a 5-15 weekend with a double against Kentucky which (showing how hot he’s been thus far in 2015) actually dropped his numbers for the year to .402/.427/.598. After transferring in from juco, hit .304/.377/.467 in 2014.
• Tommy Williams, UCF 3B--the 6th-ranked Knights took 2 of 3 from U of H over the weekend with Mr. Williams going 3-13 with a couple of walks and hitting his 4th bomb of the year. His 2015 numbers overall are pretty salty at .393/.457/.598. His OPS progression in his college career? .611 in 2013 to .819 in 2014 to the current 1.055 so it looks like he’s kinda getting the hang of things. 20th rounder in 2011 out of HS.
• Dylan Moore, UCF SS--was 2-12 on the weekend versus the Coogs with a HR (#8) and also reached 3 times on a pair of walks and a HBP. A very slick .352/.424/.639 for the year. After transferring in from juco, he put up .315/.391/.414 numbers in his junior season for the Knights.
• Blake Allemand, Aggies SS--the 5’10” Bourne native has been swinging a hot bat this season. The A&M leadoff hitter went 3-12 with 2 walks this weekend against Missouri which actually dropped his numbers for the year a tad to .324/.400/.420. He’s got 18 walks against just 7 strikeouts in 105 ABs.
• Connor Barron, Southern Miss OF--A 3rd rounder in 2011 (102nd overall pick) out of HS, the potential five tool player never really put things together at the plate in his first three seasons with the Golden Eagles. However, things might finally have clicked for him last summer playing in the Texas Collegiate League where he batted 344/.418/.519, had 34 stolen bases in 37 attempts and BA named him the top prospect in that league. The success has continued in his senior season. Entered the weekend hitting .341/.454/.477. Made a nice diving catch in the 5th inning against Rice Friday night but jammed a shoulder on the play and was removed from the game and missed the final 2 games as well.
• John Clay Reeves, Rice C--had a 5-11 weekend against Southern Miss that included a HR (#4) and a walk to give him a cool .378/.449/.532 slash line in 2015. Hit .317/.370/.439 as a junior after spending his freshman year at Arkansas (where he started 19 games at catcher) and then transferring to Navarro College for his sophomore season.
• Tanner Donnels, Loyola Marymount 1B--had a 2-9 three game set against Gonzaga with 4 walks and his 11th 2-bagger of the year. For the year: .309/.432/.585. Son of Chris.
• Logan Landon, UTPA OF--I can’t really justify putting this guy here but still felt the need to mention him. He’s one of the odder success stories of the early D1 season and the college baseball websites (D1baseball.com, et al) don’t seem to have picked up on him yet. The Broncos senior outfielder entered the weekend 2nd in the nation in batting average. Beating up on a bunch of mid-major schools? Sure, except for this: UTPA has played 5 games this season against Texas A&M (twice), TCU (twice) and UT and Landon has hit at an even better clip (.632) in those games. More specifically, against the #1 (Aggies with a 1.76 ERA), #2 (Horned Frogs, 1.77) and #25 (Longhorns, 2.67) ranked pitching staffs in the country this guy has gone 12-19 with a double, homer, 3 walks and 2 SBs. All of those were road games in front of crowds I’m sure were far larger than what he’s used to in Edinburg. Overall in 23 games he’s at .440/.523/.670. But here’s the strange part: he was exclusively a pitcher in his three previous college seasons (one at UTPA, two at a Kansas juco). Sure he’s likely to fall back to earth shortly but even in a small sample size what he’s done is pretty remarkable. Here’s a link to an article on him in the local newspaper.

Injured

• Joe McCarthy, Virginia OF--out 3 months after back surgery.

[Jacksonian]

Ridiculously good Nate.  But damn, come up for air.

[Nate Colbert]

If you somehow haven't been able to figure out there's a lot of good college shortstops available in the upcoming draft, BA spells it out for you. On Kyle Holder:

The best defender in the class, Holder was moving up draft boards thanks to a .353/.409/.412 start at the plate and one error through 22 games. “Depending on the scout,” one crosschecker said, “he’s either a 70 or 80 defender. It’s that good.” Added San Diego coach Rich Hill, “You don’t see a (college) shortstop that looks like him, that’s a prototypical guy . . . I’ve had scouts say he’s the best amateur shortstop they’ve seen—ever.”

[Mike S.]

At least some are starting to realize it's getting out of hand.  Brian Kenny wrote an apology to the Astros in a sportsonearth article, and Craig Calcaterra had a great tweet yesterday saying the Astros caused 9/11. 

I would put Dave Schoenfield from ESPN in that camp, in what's a fairly balanced piece to my eyes (apologies if posted somewhere else already - been a long day):

http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/56015/aikens-surgery-highlights-amateur-inequities?ex_cid=espnapi_public

[Nate Colbert]

Keith Law just tweeted out that Matuella has a torn UCL and will have TJS.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Keith Law just tweeted out that Matuella has a torn UCL and will have TJS.

Hmm.  That could make him an interesting 2nd rounder if he lasts that long.

[astrosfan76]

Where Matuella falls depends largely on teams’ opinions of his medical record, but officials with two clubs—one on the area level, one a more senior evaluator—indicated Matuella already was off their draft boards due to medical concerns, and that was before the news of his UCL tear.

Ouch.  I don't have any kind of medical background, but I'm surprised there are teams that wouldn't have spent even a 3rd or 4th-round (let alone a 3rd-day pick) on him before his surgery announcement.  I've said before that his back concerned me, but that's a complete lack in his ability in the filler rounds.  Perhaps money plays a heavy part in their dismissals, which I get, but completely dropping the guy in what is shaping up to be a fairly handicapped draft class seems rough.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/dukes-matuella-done-season/

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Ouch.  I don't have any kind of medical background, but I'm surprised there are teams that wouldn't have spent even a 3rd or 4th-round (let alone a 3rd-day pick) on him before his surgery announcement.  I've said before that his back concerned me, but that's a complete lack in his ability in the filler rounds.  Perhaps money plays a heavy part in their dismissals, which I get, but completely dropping the guy in what is shaping up to be a fairly handicapped draft class seems rough.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/dukes-matuella-done-season/

Exactly.  If the talent's there, take a flier, like the Mengden pick last year.

[jbm]

I'm in the other camp.  I'd avoid those types.  The residual memory of their past success/ability seems to cloud too many minds.  I suppose that with the right data, a club might feel that they have an edge, but my gut tells me that clubs shouldn't discount previous injuries more than they do.  It's totally anecdotal on my part, but I have trouble forgetting Jack Armstrong and Matt Purke.  

[Nate Colbert]

Callis analyzes the top of the draft post Matuella.

After Brendan Rodgers at #1...

Though they acknowledged that he's more of a solid player than a franchise cornerstone, both scouting directors said they would take [Dansby] Swanson with the second overall choice as of now.

[Astrofan59]

"I think this Draft is going to be defined as very erratic," an AL scouting executive said. "There's some depth but there's not a lot of top-end talent. No one is distancing himself from the rest of the pack, so it's a strange Draft to project what's going on at the top."

Astros cannot catch a break.  2 of the top 5 picks and there is a lack of top end talent.

[astrosfan76]

I'm in the other camp.  I'd avoid those types.  The residual memory of their past success/ability seems to cloud too many minds.  I suppose that with the right data, a club might feel that they have an edge, but my gut tells me that clubs shouldn't discount previous injuries more than they do.  It's totally anecdotal on my part, but I have trouble forgetting Jack Armstrong and Matt Purke. 

It depends on the type/severity of the injury. Shoulder injuries are generally going to be riskier than UCL injuries, etc. But, it should be a case-by-case basis with risk/reward factored in. I definitely don't have a problem offering less with the increased level of risk (and think it should be that way).

Really, if a club thinks a guy has a 20% chance of being an 50 grade player (or however they want to grade them) because of injury concerns, how does that compare to the other options available at that point in the draft. If the other available players have a ceiling of a 40 player, with a 30% chance of being a utility player, is it worth grabbing the higher-ceiling player? Of course, if Matuella is right, he has a much higher ceiling, but that's just the way I look at it.

[Nate Colbert]

Abbreviated version this week.

Weekend pitching and hitting performances and news plus some draft & injury history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--pitched on Thursday against Fresno State and while the Bulldogs are just a .500 team they are good enough to have beaten #8 USC and #21 California. But Tate shut ‘me down, allowing just a run on 6 hits in the CG win while whiffing 8 and walking 1. For the season: 33 hits allowed, 67 Ks, 16 walks in  60.2 IP. Never drafted.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--battle of the top draft prospects on Saturday as Louisville traveled to Charlottesville to take on Virginia. Kirby was on the short end against a Cardinals team not known for their offense (113th in batting average and 83rd in runs scored among D1 schools). Gave up 6 runs on 9 hits and 2 walks over 6.1 IP though he did strikeout 7. Never drafted.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--brought the Funk against the Cavaliers. Didn’t have a great outing but it was better the Kirby’s, allowing a run on just 5 hits over 7.2 frames with 5 Ks. And yet the walks: 4 on the day. Since ACC play has started (better competition, more discerning hitters), Funkhouser has 17 walks in 34 innings. Never drafted.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--an underwhelming performance against Georgia (6 IP, 9 H, 4 ER, 2 W, 2 K). Missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness. 14th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--in the first 2 games of the series against the Bulldogs, has gone 4-7 with 2 doubles plus reaching 3 more times on 2 walks and a HBP. Also swiped a base  Now at .381/.490/.635 for the year. 11 for 12 in SBs. 25 walks vs 20 strikeouts. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.

[Reuben]

Thanks once again, Nate.

A few tidbits from a local story on Tate's outing:

Tate, who entered the game with the ninth most strikeouts in the NCAA, has now fanned at least eight batters in seven of his eight starts this season.

He didn't reach a three-ball count until the penultimate batter of the game, with FS center fielder Jake Stone laying off three consecutive two-pitch offerings to earn his team's only base on balls of the day.

Tate recovered nicely after allowing a double on the very first pitch of the afternoon, allowing just two hits from that point through the end of the eighth inning. He was especially impressive in innings two through five, as he faced the minimum while needed seven pitches or less to get through the side each time.

He didn't have any wiggle room either, as it was a 2-1 UCSB victory.

[astrosfan76]

Couple of Callis tweets/thoughts:

Jim Callis ‏@jimcallisMLB  · 2h2 hours ago 
Yes, could go top 5-10 picks @OneOfTheMikes: Any idea if Kyle Tucker might be moving up draft boards? If so, how high could he go? @MLBDraft

Jim Callis ‏@jimcallisMLB  · 2h2 hours ago 
Rodgers clear No. 1 for me. Swanson or Tate at 2 right now. @RGBIII: favorite to go number one overall this year? Second? @MLBDraft

First time I've heard Tucker mentioned that high.  But, with all the injury problems, lack of impact talents, not hard to see why he could go in that range.  Second tweet made sense in that light, as well.  Tate has the talent to be a legitimate option there and he won't be the first guy to balloon that high, that quickly.  But, Swanson just seems to be a guy lucky enough to be very good, but ranked higher because of the issues others are having.  Decent 5-10 pick, but not someone I like as a top 2 option.  But, I felt the same way about Moran, also. 

[Nate Colbert]

BA today on Phil Bickford:

Bickford has slowly but surely come on this spring. Early in the season he was consistently throwing in the low 90s, with the same lean, projectable body and blazing arm speed that lead the Blue Jays to select him with the 10th overall pick in 2013. The Southern California native has since peaked at 97 mph, and has incorporated his slider and changeup more often. His heater sits in the 91-94 range, but he has shown the ability to dial it up to 95 or 96 when necessary.

[Nate Colbert]

From the tease of K. Law's latest ESPN article:

Virginia lefty Nathan Kirby is the top southpaw in the college ranks in this draft and is widely expected within the industry to go off the board in the first five picks. I saw his start on Saturday against Louisville at home, and what I saw from him was very similar to what I saw last year: a back-end starter who belongs somewhere in the latter half of the first round, even in a weak draft class.

[Reuben]

From the tease of K. Law's latest ESPN article:

? Is he making any particular point there other than "I'm smarter/know better than almost every MLB front office"?

[Nate Colbert]

? Is he making any particular point there other than "I'm smarter/know better than almost every MLB front office"?

Hey, it's Law.

[Mr. Happy]

? Is he making any particular point there other than "I'm smarter/know better than almost every MLB front office"?

Consider. The. Source.

[Nate Colbert]

PG profile on Dillon Tate.

[juliogotay]

PG profile on Dillon Tate.

He is a very muscular guy.

[astrosfan76]

He is a very muscular guy.

I am liking Tate, as well.  I don't know that he grades out really well compared to the other top pitchers of the past few drafts, but in this draft, he does look good.  I'd still take Aiken (pre-medical), Appel, Gray, Rodon (as frustrating as he was), and Gausman ahead of him and probably in the same tier of Kohl Stewart, Kyle Zimmer, and Aaron Nola. 

Callis had a few draft-related tweets this morning:

Re who your favorite team might pick ... top of @MLBDraft more muddled than usual, Brandon Rodgers is clear No. 1 for me, then it's a jumble

Crystal ball very murky, but if I had to wild-guess on @Astros right now at 2 & 5 I'd go with Dansby Swanson & Kyle Tucker. @MLBDraft

Allard hurt also, too high for both of them. @DAmadorC: possibility @Astros draft Allard at 2 & another HS kid (Cameron) at 5? @MLBDraft

No, think someone will try to buy low on big upside. @NotJoeMomma25: Think Matuella falls out of the 1st rd b/c of all the issues? @MLBDraft

He had Swanson as a candidate for #5 a couple of weeks ago.  Of course, it's "muddled", but I don't know what Swanson would have done to move past Tate.  Also, Tucker must really be shooting up boards. 

[Nate Colbert]

From a K Law chat earlier today:

Wilting Flower (Santa Barbara)

Do the DBacks pick Rodgers or Tate with the first pick?
Klaw  (4:39 PM)

I've heard those two and [Daz] Cameron, but I would guess they're looking at a few other players too. I've got Rodgers first on my own list.

Interesting to see Cameron resurface as a 1/1 candidate.

[Nate Colbert]

Note the sidebar in this article (I've seen several other mentions of the original ESPN Insider article from several days ago so it's not a misprint):

ESPN draft guru Keith Law released his top 50 prospects for June’s Major League Baseball draft and slotted UA shortstop Kevin Newman at No. 2.

That is...odd.

[Reuben]

Is Newman the Ozzie-esque glove one?

[astrosfan76]

Is Newman the Ozzie-esque glove one?

No, Kal Simmons out of Kennesaw State is the one you're thinking of. Newman is probably one of the better hitters in the draft (won 2 Cape batting titles), but has 0 HR in his 2+ seasons. He is hitting the ball harder, with 12 doubles already, but he's never going to be a masher (or even average power hitter). Defensively, the report on him coming into the season was that his tools didn't say he would stick at shortstop, but his instincts could. I haven't seen much on him during the season, but I don't see what makes him that high of a prospect, even in this class. He doesn't even seem as good as Swanson.

For reference, Simmons is an even lighter hitter. But, I would take him in the second or later if he can provide that much value at short.

[Nate Colbert]

Is Newman the Ozzie-esque glove one?

San Diego's Kyle Holder is the one I've seen get the most raves for this glove.

[Nate Colbert]

In a draft light on power hitters, two go down with injury in the past few days. Boston College 1B Chris Shaw is likely out for a month with a broken hamate bone. South Carolina HSer OF Kep Brown out for year with a torn achilles.

Both are/were potential 1st rounders.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances and news plus some draft history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--facing less than stellar competition in CSUN on Friday, Tate had a less than stellar outing: 7 IP, 9 H, 4 ER, 2 W, 4 K. Never drafted.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--a second bad outing in a row for Nate, this time versus Georgia Tech: 5.1 IP, 5 H, 4 ER, 6 W, 4 K. Now with an ugly 29 walks in 56.1 innings in 2015. Never drafted.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--bucking the weekend trend, Funky actually drew quite a few accolades of draft watchers in attendance as he shut down Duke (7 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 1 W, 8 K). Never drafted.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--like Funkhouser, the Dores pitcher wasn’t too shabby this weekend. Against a middle of the pack SEC team in Ole Miss, Ferris Walker was superb allowing just 1 run on 5 hits over 8 frames while K’ing 13. 14th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--nice weekend against the Rebels going 4-14 with 2 HRs (#6 & #7), a double (#12) and a walk. Now at .381/.467/.639 for the year. 12 for 13 in SBs. 28 walks vs 25 strikeouts. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--went 2-10 with 2 walks and a SB against Auburn  putting his season numbers at .331/.416/.601. Just 8 strikeouts in 148 ABs. 22 out of 26 in SBs. 29th round pick in 2012 out of HS.

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDaniel ‏@kileymcd  46 minutes ago
Nikorak and Funkhouser stepping up as others fall back MT @JBrownPG Quick 1st for Mike Nikorak, K'ing the side w/a steady diet of 93-96.

Jheremy Brown ‏@JBrownPG  49 minutes ago
Quick 1st for Mike Nikorak, K'ing the side with a steady diet of 93-96 mph FBs. 2S showing late life @ 91/92 w hard biting CB @ 82.

Nikorak is a 6'5" righty from a HS in Pennsylvania. Here's a profile on him.

[Nate Colbert]

BA compares Brendan Rodgers to other HS shortstops taken at the top of the draft.

[jbm]

I've been unmotivated to care about the draft, but now I'm getting mildly interested.  I thought I heard Ferrin talk about a SS with a legit 70 glove (as opposed to a message board 70) and IIRC, he was a college player.  Who might that be? 

Sorry if I am rehashing old news.

[Jacksonian]

I've been unmotivated to care about the draft, but now I'm getting mildly interested.  I thought I heard Ferrin talk about a SS with a legit 70 glove (as opposed to a message board 70) and IIRC, he was a college player.  Who might that be? 

Sorry if I am rehashing old news.

Check out the last few posts on page 16.

[jbm]

Thanks.  The way Ferrin (I think) was talking, I expected universal acknowledgement by the baseball community, but I guess it is either Holder or Simmons.

[astrosfan76]

Thanks.  The way Ferrin (I think) was talking, I expected universal acknowledgement by the baseball community, but I guess it is either Holder or Simmons.

Simmons is good and is the first defensive whiz I came across (60 or 70, depending on the scout), but Holder is the gold standard defensively in this class.  Simmons has more bat, but neither is exciting offensively.   

[Nate Colbert]

Here's a further take (including video) on Pennsylvania HSer RHP Mike Nikorak which ends with this:

Currently ranked #8 overall in the 2015 high school rankings per Perfect Game, Nikorak solidified himself as one of the top arms in the country, regardless prep or college. He should hear his named called in the first half of the first round, climbing higher as he continues throwing well throughout the spring.

[Nate Colbert]

More on Funkhouser's outing this past weekend against Duke which wow'd some draft folks:

Last Friday, Funkhouser did just that in an eye-opening performance in front of a cadre of MLB scouts. With a thinning pitching draft class due to injury and ineffectiveness, Funkhouser could have thrust himself into consideration for the first overall pick—certainly the top five.

He touched as high as 98 mph but worked comfortably at 92-96 and touched 97 with regularity, mixing in a mid-80s slider as an out pitch, a show-me curveball and a two-seamer in the high 80s that he used as a pseudo offspeed offering. He threw “three or four” true changeups, he said, which were firm with sinking action.

[Nate Colbert]

Another "helium" guy to follow is draft-eligible sophomore Arkansas CF Andrew Benintendi, who leads D1 with 13 homers and is currently hitting .359/.459/.742.

Here's a profile on him from last week in the local newspaper.

[Nate Colbert]

I've been tracking Jose Vizcaino, Jr. for several months, originally on the belief that he was a mid-round prospect (well that and the bloodlines of course). But his terrific improvement this season has changed things according to Frankie Piliere:

...has found himself climbing draft boards in a hurry in recent weeks. Through his first 29 games, Vizcaino is hitting .351 with six home runs and seven stolen bases. He’s impressed scouts with his above average bat speed and overall athleticism, proving he can play a premium position at the next level. Vizcaino is now being looked at as a potential top three round type selection.

[Reuben]

More on Funkhouser's outing this past weekend against Duke which wow'd some draft folks:

A lot of those folks probably booked their itinerary for that game back when it was going to be Matuella vs. Funkhouser.

[Nate Colbert]

PG article about what they say is a strong HS class out of Florida this year (though there are a couple of 2016 kids in there as well). Rodgers, Tucker, RHP Austin Smith, RHP Triston McKenzie and OF Daniel Reyes of that group have been previously identified as possible 1st rounders/early 2nd rounders.

Frankie Piliere @FPiliereD1  · 6 hours ago
Prep RHP Austin Smith (Boynton Beach, FL) w/ an impressive showing last night. 92-94 mph all game, T96 in front of about 35 scouts.

[Nate Colbert]

Another HS pitcher that seems to be rising of late:

Kiley McDaniel ‏@kileymcd  2 hours ago
Indiana prep RHP Ashe Russell was up to 97 mph yesterday and the stuff was crisp, like his better moments last summer.

FWIW, he is an Aggie commit.

[jbm]

FWIW, he is an Aggie commit.

Well, hope he gets drafted real high.

How are the Aggies getting Indiana players?

[Jacksonian]

How are the Aggies getting Indiana players?

Ignorance

[NeilT]

Well, hope he gets drafted real high.

How are the Aggies getting Indiana players?

They want to go someplace more GLBT friendly.

[Reuben]

They want to go someplace more GLBT friendly.

Bravo.

[Nate Colbert]

Another "helium" guy to follow is draft-eligible sophomore Arkansas CF Andrew Benintendi, who leads D1 with 13 homers and is currently hitting .359/.459/.742.

Reached base 4 times tonight in the Arkansas win over SFA, scoring 4 times while also hitting his 14th longball and swiping 3 bases. Now 15-18 in steals and 27 walks vs 20 strikeouts on the year.

[astrosfan76]

D1Baseball.com, which has poached some quality writers, such as Nathan Rode, Frankie Pliere, and Kendall Rogers over the past year, posted their top 100 HS draft prospects today. The entire list can be seen with a subscription, but the top 10 can be seen without. Brendan Rodgers is still the guy at #1, but #2 is a guy I haven't seen before. Here's what they say:

One of the most interesting battles to watch atop this list is the one for the title of best high school pitching prospect. For now, hard throwing northeast righty, Alabama commitment Mike Nikorak, has taken hold of that title, as he’s come out of a cold winter with a mid-90s fastball and a hard, late biting curveball.

http://www.d1baseball.com/the-buzz/high-school-top-100-with-commitments

[Nate Colbert]

but #2 is a guy I haven't seen before. . .

See replies  #323 and #328 in this thread from three days ago.

[Nate Colbert]

Ben Cherington (Red Sox pick #7) in Columbia tonight for the Vandy/South Carolina game to check out Dansby Swanson or Carson Fulmer.  Both are doing pretty well: Fulmer shut out the Gamecocks thru 7 with 9 whiffs and 3hits/1walk allowed while Swanson with a couple of walks and a pair of sac flies.

ETA:
Fulmer’s last 2 outings: 16 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 1 BB, 23 K.

[astrosfan76]

See replies  #323 and #328 in this thread from three days ago.

On another page?  Well, that's too much effort.

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDonald is out with his updated draft rankings and had this to say:

Houston appears to be focused on the consensus top three prospects — Rodgers, Dillon Tate, and Dansby Swanson — as their target at #2 overall, though that shouldn’t be seen as surprising since the whole industry would be doing the same thing with that pick. With a dropoff after those three, Houston has the leverage to pit two players against each other to make sure they get a signable player with the compensatory pick from the Brady Aiken fiasco. At #5, Houston has been tied to Kyle Tucker and Daz Cameron, who they’ve both been scouting heavily, but it’s too early to think even Houston knows who they’re taking at that pick.

[astrosfan76]

McDonald also had some interesting things to say about Aiken. I won't post all of it here, but here are some  of the highlights:

There is persistent, consistent and detailed buzz coming from many sources that there is more to Aiken’s injury than just a clean surgery like Erick Fedde, Jeff Hoffman or Lucas Giolito from recent years...I won’t repeat the specific rumors, but the worst versions of it say there are career-threatening issues at play while others say it’s just an increased injury risk going forward.

This gels with Law's chat where he echoes the rumblings that it may not have been a routine surgery.

[astrosfan76]

BA updated their Top 50 list, with the top three, followed by Bregman and Funkhouser. Again, the most interesting information isn't the rankings, but the commentary. While not directly related to Houston, there was this note:

The industry was awash with buzz that the Diamondbacks, who select first, and especially new GM Dave Stewart, are enamored with Tate, making him a potential No. 1 overall pick...“The stuff is top-of-the-draft stuff,” a National League crosschecker said, citing Tate’s mid-90s fastball, slider and changeup, all of which scouts grade as at least plus, “it’s just not the typical track record of a No. 1 overall pick.”

Doesn't mean Arizona is leaning toward Tate, but it may not be a slam dunk that Rodgers goes 1/1, either.

http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/top-50-draft-prospects/

[Nate Colbert]

Just to complete the roundup of links to draft update postings, Jim Callis of MLB.com in a Q&A yesterday said there were 5 and maybe 6 guys who were consensus top ten picks at this point: beyond the Rodgers/Tate/Swanson triumvirate he listed Bregman and Funkhouser with "many evaluators" adding Kyle Tucker to the list. Nothing much beyond that at this link other than the obligatory "boy, the top of the draft is really unsettled" comments.

[roadrunner]

McDonald also had some interesting things to say about Aiken. I won't post all of it here, but here are some  of the highlights:

This gels with Law's chat where he echoes the rumblings that it may not have been a routine surgery.

Wow...career ending.  I want the Astros to look good in this, but if that happened I would definitely feel bad for the kid.

[Jacksonian]

Kirby out of the game tonight in the 4th with a strained lay.

[astrosfan76]

Kirby out of the game tonight in the 4th with a strained lay.

Guess it really does affect your performance.

[NeilT]

Guess it really does affect your performance.

I wonder how it's diagnosed?

[Lefty]

I wonder how it's diagnosed?

Detailed video study

[Reuben]

Detailed video study

And couple's counseling, perhaps.

[Nate Colbert]

It's contagious.

Kiley McDaniel ‏@kileymcd  1 hour ago
The #2 prospect in the draft, UC Santa Barbara righty Dillon Tate, has been scratched from his start this weekend. Sounds like lat strain.

[Reuben]

It's contagious.

Why wasn't he scheduled to pitch Friday, in the first place?

In any case, I don't think anyone could blame the Astros if they're feeling very gun-shy about spending a high pick on pitching right now, given their own issues with the past two 1/1s, and the general epidemic of major arm issues across the amateur and pro ranks.

So it would not surprise me at all if they take either Rodgers or Swansby with the #2 pick.

[astrosfan76]

Why wasn't he scheduled to pitch Friday, in the first place?

In any case, I don't think anyone could blame the Astros if they're feeling very gun-shy about spending a high pick on pitching right now, given their own issues with the past two 1/1s, and the general epidemic of major arm issues across the amateur and pro ranks.

So it would not surprise me at all if they take either Rodgers or Swansby with the #2 pick.

Issue doesn't seem to be too worrisome:

@longenhagen: Dillon Tate scratched from his start today due to a strained lat he sustained in the weight room. Better safe than sorry.

What's wrong with Appel, by the way? He had a rough stint in Lancaster, but has been fine, outside of that.

[Astrofan59]

What's wrong with Appel, by the way? He had a rough stint in Lancaster, but has been fine, outside of that.

I agree.  Bryant has helium, but I think Appel turns out to be an excellent selection.

[pots]

Wow...career ending.  I want the Astros to look good in this, but if that happened I would definitely feel bad for the kid.

Why isn't the media frying Close over an open flame? 

[Mr. Happy]

Why isn't the media frying Close over an open flame?

I pointed that out last year. I wouldn't be surprised if Close faces a malpractice action.

[jbm]

Maybe Aiken was calling the shots and ignored Close's advice. It's possible.

[pots]

Maybe Aiken was calling the shots and ignored Close's advice. It's possible.

Maybe, but it doesn't fit the facts.  Close was outspoken through the whole negotiation.   Hard to believe he was saying take the deal while bad mouthing the Astros. 

[Reuben]

What's wrong with Appel, by the way? He had a rough stint in Lancaster, but has been fine, outside of that.

"A rough stint" is a bit of an understatement. He got rocked, time after time after time. Don't get me wrong, I haven't given up on him, and I'm very encouraged by what he's done in CC and the AFL. But I think we can all agree some of the shine has worn off.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances and news plus some draft & injury history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--as previously noted, held out this weekend due to strained lat. Never drafted.
• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--went 3-10 against the Gamecocks with a double, 2 walks and 2 sac flies. Now at .360/.460/.640 for the year. 12 for 14 in SBs. 30 walks vs 29 strikeouts. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--in a pair of games against Georgia, went 2-8 with a walk and a HBP but (rare for him) did whiff 3 times. Puts his season numbers at .329/.419/.601. Just 11 strikeouts in 158 ABs. 23 out of 27 in SBs. 29th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--mediocre Funkhouser resurfaced this week vs Wake Forest (7.2 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 4 W, 4 K) after wowing folks the previous weekend. Funkhouser has 22 walks in 48.2 innings against ACC competition. Never drafted.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--also as previously noted, left game against Miami after three scoreless with the same issue as Mr. Tate. Never drafted.
• Carson Fulmer and Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHPs--Fulmer dominated South Carolina this weekend (7 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 1 W, 9 K) while Buehler didn’t (6.1 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, 3 W, 6 K). 15th round and 14th round selections, respectively, in 2012 out of HS. Buehler missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness.
• Ian Happ, Cincinnati INF/OF--McTaggart says the Astros were scouting Happ this weekend. Not exactly news for a number of different reasons, but given the Bearcats were at UofH that might have made travel logistics just a teensy bit easier. The switch-hitter didn’t put on the greatest of shows, going just 1-10 against the Coogs and striking out 3 times. Currently at .374/.497/.672. 34 strikeouts in 131 ABs. Just 5-11 in SB attempts. Playing OF for the Bearcats, there’s some debate as to where his future position lies in the pros (some believe 2B is a possibility). Never drafted.

[astrosfan76]

"A rough stint" is a bit of an understatement. He got rocked, time after time after time. Don't get me wrong, I haven't given up on him, and I'm very encouraged by what he's done in CC and the AFL. But I think we can all agree some of the shine has worn off.

No, I'll stick to rough stint.  Between the AFL (2.61 ERA), Spring Training (2.57 ERA), and his (albeit brief) start to this season at AA (.90 ERA), I'm as high on him as ever.  By saying the club might be jaded against pitchers because of his performance would imply that Lancaster is the expected norm from him; that just isn't the case.  He still looks to be a very good MLB pitcher and I think they should have no problem with that.  There is definitely not reason to alter draft patterns because of him.

[Jacksonian]

Weekend performances and news plus some draft & injury history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--as previously noted, held out this weekend due to strained lat. Never drafted.
• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--went 3-10 against the Gamecocks with a double, 2 walks and 2 sac flies. Now at .360/.460/.640 for the year. 12 for 14 in SBs. 30 walks vs 29 strikeouts. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--in a pair of games against Georgia, went 2-8 with a walk and a HBP but (rare for him) did whiff 3 times. Puts his season numbers at .329/.419/.601. Just 11 strikeouts in 158 ABs. 23 out of 27 in SBs. 29th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--mediocre Funkhouser resurfaced this week vs Wake Forest (7.2 IP, 6 H, 5 ER, 4 W, 4 K) after wowing folks the previous weekend. Funkhouser has 22 walks in 48.2 innings against ACC competition. Never drafted.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--also as previously noted, left game against Miami after three scoreless with the same issue as Mr. Tate. Never drafted.
• Carson Fulmer and Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHPs--Fulmer dominated South Carolina this weekend (7 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 1 W, 9 K) while Buehler didn’t (6.1 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, 3 W, 6 K). 15th round and 14th round selections, respectively, in 2012 out of HS. Buehler missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness.
• Ian Happ, Cincinnati INF/OF--McTaggart says the Astros were scouting Happ this weekend. Not exactly news for a number of different reasons, but given the Bearcats were at UofH that might have made travel logistics just a teensy bit easier. The switch-hitter didn’t put on the greatest of shows, going just 1-10 against the Coogs and striking out 3 times. Currently at .374/.497/.672. 34 strikeouts in 131 ABs. Just 5-11 in SB attempts. Playing OF for the Bearcats, there’s some debate as to where his future position lies in the pros (some believe 2B is a possibility). Never drafted.

The more I look the more I'm thinking that if Rodgers goes 1 then Fulmer goes 2.

[pots]

The more I look the more I'm thinking that if Rodgers goes 1 then Fulmer goes 2.

The more I look, the more I think I haven't a clue who is going first and second.  I'm guessing all the fluctuation is a strong sign the draft is weak.  Seems like any kind of a roll these guys have pushes them to the front of the conversation.   And any bad start sends them to the back of the pack.  Scouts will be earning their salary this year

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDonald is out with his updated draft rankings...

From the comments section of that article:

Question: Do we know who Casey Close represents in this draft and if there’s any linger issues with him and the Astros that might lead to the Astros not picking one of his guys?

Kiley McDaniel says: I know, but I won’t be reporting the names, since that helps the NCAA take leverage/eligibility away from these kids. Houston has been scouting all of Close’s players except for Aiken, so they don’t appear to be avoiding his clients, but I wouldn’t count on them taking one with a high pick. Close reps 7 of the top 14 prospects on this list.

[juliogotay]

From the comments section of that article:

Wow. That could be a huge factor for them.

[jbm]

I suspect McDaniel's take is vastly over-stated.  If it is not, that's a shame, IMO, as it isn't in the best interests of either party to be petulant over this.  Close isn't in a position to act almighty after Aiken's injury and Luhnow can't limit his potential assets.

[Reuben]

I don't get why he won't report the agent/advisor names. Doesn't that become public knowledge (for all the 1st-round picks at least) well before the draft anyway? Is there some reason that isn't expected to happen this year?

[juliogotay]

I suspect McDaniel's take is vastly over-stated.  If it is not, that's a shame, IMO, as it isn't in the best interests of either party to be petulant over this.  Close isn't in a position to act almighty after Aiken's injury and Luhnow can't limit his potential assets.

On second thought, I think you are right. The slotting system takes most of the negotiating out of it doesn't it?

[Nate Colbert]

Another "helium" guy to follow is draft-eligible sophomore Arkansas CF Andrew Benintendi, who leads D1 with 13 homers and is currently hitting .359/.459/.742.

Here's a profile on him from last week in the local newspaper.

And a profile article today from PG.

[Jacksonian]

I suspect McDaniel's take is vastly over-stated.  If it is not, that's a shame, IMO, as it isn't in the best interests of either party to be petulant over this.  Close isn't in a position to act almighty after Aiken's injury and Luhnow can't limit his potential assets.

It probably is but if so it really doesn't matter much from an Astros position IMO.  As muddled as 2-5 are they could avoid Close clients without it looking bad or sacrificing talent.

[Nate Colbert]

Nathan Kirby out 6-8 weeks after that lat strain.

[Reuben]

It probably is but if so it really doesn't matter much from an Astros position IMO.  As muddled as 2-5 are they could avoid Close clients without it looking bad or sacrificing talent.

Unless Rodgers is a Close Client, and the D-backs take Tate. Then it could look bad if the Astros passed on Rodgers.

But I'm guessing from what McDaniels says that Rodgers, Tate, and Swanson are probably all non-Close guys (probably Bora$).

[BUWebguy]

No, I'll stick to rough stint.  Between the AFL (2.61 ERA), Spring Training (2.57 ERA), and his (albeit brief) start to this season at AA (.90 ERA), I'm as high on him as ever.  By saying the club might be jaded against pitchers because of his performance would imply that Lancaster is the expected norm from him; that just isn't the case.  He still looks to be a very good MLB pitcher and I think they should have no problem with that.  There is definitely not reason to alter draft patterns because of him.

For reference:
Appel at Lancaster: 2-5, 9.74 ERA, 12 G, 12 GS, 44.1 IP, 74 H, 40 K, 11 BB
Appel outside Lancaster: 6-3, 3.41 ERA, 19 G, 18 GS, 87 IP, 75 H, 79 K, 24 BB

That doesn't include AFL or spring training; just Tri-City, Quad Cities and Corpus.

[Nate Colbert]

Mac Marshall returned to the hill today for Chipola after recovering from the broken thumb. Went 3 scoreless, allowing 2 hits and a walk while whiffing 4.

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDaniel ‏@kileymcd  4 minutes ago
HOU GM Jeff Luhnow was at the Vandy game last night & BOS GM Ben Cherington was in last week both for Carson Fulmer starts & obv Swanson too.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances and news plus some draft & injury history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--back on the hill after the strained trap muscle (not strained lat as originally reported), no-hit the Rainbow Warriors out in Hawaii over 7 innings. Struck out 6 while walking 2, hitting 2 and uncorking 1 WP. Threw 94 pitches. Never drafted.
• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--in the SEC series showdown of the year against Texas A&M, went 5-12 with a double and a SB. Puts his season numbers at .335/.420/.595. Just 12 strikeouts in 173 ABs. 25 out of 29 in SBs. From the D1Baseball.com game story Friday night where Bregman had what turned out to be the game-winning hit in B7 off flamethrowing Aggie closer Mark Ecker:
  

  Bregman worked the count to 3-and-1, then fouled off a fastball to run the count full. Ecker kept pounding him with 94-95 mph heaters, and Bregman fouled off three more to stay alive. Then Ecker threw a breaking ball, and Bregman turned on it for a go-ahead two-run double into the left-field corner, sending a jam-packed Alex Box Stadium into a frenzy. “You could watch baseball for a hundred years and never see a greater battle between a pitcher and a hitter than you did between Ecker and Alex Bregman,” [LSU Head Coach Paul] Mainieri said. “Fortunately for us, Alex Bregman got the best of that little battle there. It was an awesome at-bat, one of the best at-bats I’ve ever seen.”

  29th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--not sure why the Cardinals scheduled a weekend series against a cupcake like a 15-31 Bethune-Cookman squad so late in the season but The Funkster took advantage and got the CG win although he was far from dominant given the competition (9 IP, 8 H, 4 R, 1 ER, 3 W, 9 K). Threw 129 pitches. Never drafted.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--out 6-8 weeks with strained lat. Never drafted.
• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--walks aside, Fulmer with the impressive outing versus Mizzou on Friday (7 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 4 W, 11 K). Threw 120 pitches. 15th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--starts on Sunday vs the Tigers. Missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness. 14th round selections in 2012 out of HS.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances and news (including Sunday updates) plus some draft & injury history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--back on the hill after the strained trap muscle (not strained lat as originally reported), no-hit the Rainbow Warriors out in Hawaii over 7 innings. Struck out 6 while walking 2, hitting 2 and uncorking 1 WP. Threw 94 pitches. Never drafted.
• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--went 4-14 in the three games against Missouri with a double (#15). Now at .348/.444/.607 for the year. 12 for 14 in SBs. 31 walks vs 35 strikeouts. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--in the SEC series showdown of the year against Texas A&M, went 5-12 with a double and a SB. Puts his season numbers at .335/.420/.595. Just 12 strikeouts in 173 ABs. 25 out of 29 in SBs. From the D1Baseball.com game story Friday night where Bregman had what turned out to be the game-winning hit in B7 off flamethrowing Aggie closer Mark Ecker:
  

  Bregman worked the count to 3-and-1, then fouled off a fastball to run the count full. Ecker kept pounding him with 94-95 mph heaters, and Bregman fouled off three more to stay alive. Then Ecker threw a breaking ball, and Bregman turned on it for a go-ahead two-run double into the left-field corner, sending a jam-packed Alex Box Stadium into a frenzy. “You could watch baseball for a hundred years and never see a greater battle between a pitcher and a hitter than you did between Ecker and Alex Bregman,” [LSU Head Coach Paul] Mainieri said. “Fortunately for us, Alex Bregman got the best of that little battle there. It was an awesome at-bat, one of the best at-bats I’ve ever seen.”

  29th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--not sure why the Cardinals scheduled a weekend series against a cupcake like a 15-31 Bethune-Cookman squad so late in the season but The Funkster took advantage and got the CG win although he was far from dominant given the competition (9 IP, 8 H, 4 R, 1 ER, 3 W, 9 K). Threw 129 pitches. Never drafted.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--out 6-8 weeks with strained lat. Never drafted.
• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--walks aside, Fulmer with the impressive outing versus Mizzou on Friday (7 IP, 3 H, 0 ER, 4 W, 11 K). Threw 120 pitches. 15th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--not as good as Fulmer’s but a very decent outing (7 IP, 7 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 2 W, 9 K) Sunday vs the Tigers. Threw 99 pitches. Missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness. 14th round selections in 2012 out of HS.
• Ian Happ, Cincinnati INF/OF--The switch-hitter went 3-9 over the weekend against Tulane with 2 doubles and 4 walks. Currently at .374/.503/.680. 40 walks and 40 strikeouts in 147 ABs. Just 5-11 in SBs. Possible 2B in pros but currently playing OF for the Bearcats. Never drafted.

[Astrofan59]

MLB.com has updated and expanded it draft rankings

http://m.mlb.com/prospects/2015?list=draft

[Nate Colbert]

MLB.com has updated and expanded it draft rankings.

Just comparing:

MLB.com
1. Rodgers
2. Tate
3. Swanson
4. Funkhouser
5. Bregman
6. Nikorak
7. Fulmer
8. Tucker
9. Buehler
10. Jon Harris, Missouri State RHP (#22 on BA and #23 on FG)

BA (April 17)
1. Rodgers
2. Tate
3. Swanson
4. Bregman
5. Funkhouser
6. Fulmer
7. Kirby (#16 on FG and #20 on MLB.com)
8. Buehler
9. Trenton Clark, Richland TX HS OFer (#19 on FG and #13 on MLB.com)
10. Tucker

Kiley McDaniel/FG (April 17)
1. Rodgers
2. Tate
3. Swanson
4. Bregman
5. Funkhouser
6. Fulmer
7. Tucker
8. Newman (#24 on MLB.com and #28 on BA)
9. Happ (#14 on MLB.com and #17 on BA)
10. Nikorak

[astrosfan76]

Callis & Mayo each with a draft chat via Twitter.  Each took multiple Astros-related questions.  Here are a few Callis remarks:

Jim Callis ‏@jimcallisMLB 30m30 minutes ago

Lot of people think it's not Rodgers, so my guess is Tate. @EDUBMora74: who do you think @DBacks get? @MLBDraft

Jim Callis ‏@jimcallisMLB 31m31 minutes ago

Hearing @Astros associated w/several HS OF, him in particular. @webberoo11: what is reasoning of Cameron jumping all the way to 5? @MLBDraft

Jim Callis ‏@jimcallisMLB 42m42 minutes ago

Keep hearing @Dbacks not on Rodgers, so he could be 2. @acohn1230: Think @Astros go Swanson or Tate at 2, assuming Rodgers is 1? @MLBDraft

Jim Callis ‏@jimcallisMLB 56m56 minutes ago

Right now would guess Brendan Rodgers & Daz Cameron. Thinking two bats. @breid6791: best guess for @Astros picks at 2 and 5? @MLBDraft

[Knoxbanedoodle]

So what's the story on this Daz Cameron? (Apologies if Cabrera-baiting.)

[Nate Colbert]

So what's the story on this Daz Cameron? (Apologies if Cabrera-baiting.)

From Kiley McD's FG 4/17 draft rankings linked to earlier:

Son of Mike Cameron was hyped early in his high school career as a potential 1-1 but hasn’t made the expected progress since then. He’s an above average to plus runner with the same kind of bat speed and average raw power, but the game performances were only okay over the summer and he’s facing weak competition this spring. He could easily go in the top 5-10 picks, but some teams don’t like him in the top 20.

[Reuben]

I would be shocked if they don't take at least one college player with either 2 or 5, given the talent available this year.

...unless the thought behind Cameron at 5 is to cut a deal there and take a tough-sign at #37? It seems too early for that specific a ploy to be leaking its way to the press.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Maybe it's just the whole MLB bloodlines things, but the DDS Jr. Experiment makes me kinda reluctant about Cameron.  Probably unfair, but the scouting report sounds pretty similar.

[astrosfan76]

Maybe it's just the whole MLB bloodlines things, but the DDS Jr. Experiment makes me kinda reluctant about Cameron.  Probably unfair, but the scouting report sounds pretty similar.

I'm not too worried about that, he's a different kind of player than DDS.  DDS was a burner who had some potential for home runs.  Cameron doesn't have the same speed, but uses good instincts to track down balls in the outfield, rather than relying on speed.  Cameron has a better arm than DDS (though not a cannon) and a better hit tool.  At this point, he feels like a safer pick than DDS was; lower ceiling, but a good chance to be a better all-around player.  Still not sure I like him at #5, but not because he looks like a wasted pick.   

[moriartp]

The only comparison that scares me is that the Astros would be picking a guy well above his consensus position.

[toddthebod]

Would the Astros consider taking 2 college starters with the two first round picks?  If the Astros are as close to being a playoff contender as they seem, does it make sense to draft people that could make a quick impact?

[jbm]

I hope they don't think this way, and just take the player they think will be best over the long haul, regardless of position or age.  Filling in the empty spaces on a roster is the job of a GM through trades and free agency, not through the draft.

[subnuclear]

Would the Astros consider taking 2 college starters with the two first round picks?  If the Astros are as close to being a playoff contender as they seem, does it make sense to draft people that could make a quick impact?

Hopefully, the Astros won't be getting picks like this again for a long while, so I think the best strategy is get the most value you can.

[Reuben]

Hopefully, the Astros won't be getting picks like this again for a long while, so I think the best strategy is get the most value you can.

Exactly. "How soon can this guy help us?" is part of the equation, I'm sure; but hopefully it's way down the list and would never cause them to pick a guy they think is clearly not as good as a guy they pass on.

If they were placing a high priority on quick impact, they probably would've taken Rodon, not Aiken, last year.

[Nate Colbert]

Callis & Mayo mock the first 10 picks (which in a weak draft at the top I suppose could have the other meaning as well). Callis does write that in addition to Cameron and Tucker the Astros have also been linked to Richland Hills HS (DFW area) outfielder Trent Clark.

MLB.com has him at #13 in their rankings and had this to say about him:

Clark has an unusual left-handed swing with a golf-style grip, but he makes repeated hard contact with his short stroke and above-average bat speed. Factor in his considerable strength and he should have at least average power. He also adds value on the bases with his solid speed and keen instincts. While he's not a true burner, Clark has a chance to stay in center field as a pro. Left field would be his likely fallback position and the Texas Tech commit should have enough bat to profile there if needed.

Kiley McDonald had him at #20 and said:

Clark is a bit of a tweener that likely fits best in left field and has solid average raw power, but he’s ranked this high because he’s always hit and hit a ton.

And this pulled from a USA HS Sports article from last week:

He’s been scouted by many, including Chicago Cubs president Theo Epstein for Tuesday’s night home game against Euless Trinity. Epstein kept a low profile (no Cubs gear, hat pulled down over eyes) but talked after the game to Clark, who also met with Rangers GM Jon Daniels and Michael Young earlier in day.

Richland football coaches wanted Clark to play football so they put him on varsity as a freshman. He was fearless as he is in center fielder, could run past defenders and would have been one of the state’s top players. But as a sophomore, Clark decided to concentrate on his baseball future. He also came up with his thumbs-up batting style, which looks odd in baseball, but he picked it up from studying golfers.

[astrosfan76]

In the same article, Callis has Cameron going #5 to the Astros, with Mayo putting him at #4 to the Rangers.  I don't know if this high draft spot is based on anything, but we'll see if it becomes a trend to see him in the top 10. 

[Nate Colbert]

I'm sure many are aware of the rule that players drafted cannot be traded in the 12-month period after the draft. Of course teams got around that rule using the rather notorious PTBNL exception (most egregiously in the case of Trea Turner when it actually got disclosed that he was the PTBNL resulting in him continuing to play in the Padres organization even though he's actually Nationals property).

Effective with the upcoming draft, MLB has changed the rule allowing draftees to be traded effective after the World Series. So a 12-month rule essentially becomes a 5-month rule. The PTBNL exception will no longer be allowed.

Although not really anything else to add to the above, Dave Cameron of FG with the story.

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDaniel ‏@kileymcd  59 minutes ago
I've mentioned the rumors all spring that the Astros are heavy on Daz Cameron. Houston GM Jeff Luhnow is at Cameron's playoff games today.

[Nate Colbert]

In one of those Eagle's Landing Christian playoff games: Cameron singled, stole second, and then scored from 2B on a sac bunt.

ETA: also homered.

[Reuben]

Scored from 2B on a sac bunt, with no error charged? Damn. Whoever was covering 1B must've had Krazy glue on his throwing hand.

[Mr. Happy]

Scored from 2B on a sac bunt, with no error charged? Damn. Whoever was covering 1B must've had Krazy glue on his throwing hand.

No. He's the second coming of Willie Mays Hayes.

[NeilT]

I may be more impressed with the bunter.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances and news plus some draft & injury history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--UC Davis was the opponent and as you would expect the Gaucho pitcher was fairly dominant (8/5/2/2/2/7). Tossed 108 pitches. Never drafted.
• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--went 5-11 against Kentucky with 2 doubles (#16 & #17) and 3 walks. Now at .354/.450/.608 for the year. 12 for 14 in SBs. 34 walks vs 35 strikeouts. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.[/b]
• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--went 6-15 with 3 doubles and 4 BBs vs Mississippi State. Puts his season numbers at .337/.424/.596. Just 15 strikeouts in 193 ABs. 26 out of 32 in SBs. 29th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--although he ended up sticking around for a half dozen innings, got tattoo’d early by a so-so Clemson squad on Saturday. Ended up at 6/7/5/5/0/2. Never drafted.
• Nathan Kirby, Virginia LHP--out 6-8 weeks with strained lat. Never drafted.
• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--Kentucky wasn’t too kind (6.2/8/3/3/3/6) but Fulmer pitched well enough to eke out a win. Threw 112 pitches. 15th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--not all that dissimilar from Fulmer’s outing versus the Wildcats (6/7/3/3/2/5). Threw 98 pitches. Missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness. 14th round selections in 2012 out of HS.
• Ian Happ, Cincinnati INF/OF--The switch-hitter went 5-14 in the 3-game set against Memphis with a walk, double (#13) and 2 dongs (#12 & #13). Currently at .373/.495/.696. 41 walks and 44 strikeouts in 147 ABs. Just 5-11 in SBs. Possible 2B in pros but currently playing OF for the Bearcats. Never drafted.[/b]

[juliogotay]

A nice piece on Funkhouser. http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2015/5/4/8544183/2015-mlb-draft-profile-kyle-funkhouser-rhp-louisville

They claim he's a top 5 choice so Houston could have two shots at him.

[Nate Colbert]

From today's chat transcript:

Q: You presented a scenario in your latest Insider post where Rodgers falls to the Rangers at 1.4. How likely do you think this is? Would the Astros at 1.2 be the main impediment to this happening?

Klaw  (1:24 PM): Astros are out on Rodgers, I'm told. I think the Rockies want a pitcher at 3, but I don't know if they'd pass on Rodgers for that.

Q: Why are ARI and HOU both passing on Rodgers? $$?

Klaw  (1:28 PM):  I've heard Houston doesn't feel he's the best or second-best player, that he hasn't hit well enough this spring and that he hasn't shown well when they've seen him. That's all hearsay - most of this stuff is, mind you - but it might be the real reason. He's also going to be 18.8 on draft day, which the Astros weigh heavily, and there are some (IMO irrelevant) variables outside of that that may be giving Houston some pause.

[Nate Colbert]

Evan Drellich ‏@EvanDrellich  15 minutes ago
Sources: Jacob Nix is no longer advised by Casey Close or Excel. Searching for new advisor ahead of draft.

[moriartp]

As well he should.

[astrosfan76]

As well he should.

Yep. Doesn't mean he forgives the Astros, but apparently he does want to wipe his hands of what happened last year and start fresh.

[Mr. Happy]

If anyone has a claim against Close, it is Nix. Close had, in my opinion, an irreparable conflict of interest representing both players in a zero sum game.

[Reuben]

From today's chat transcript:

Wonder what "variables" he could be referring to? Health issue? Personality?

[pots]

Wonder what "variables" he could be referring to? Health issue? Personality?

Hard to imagine that personality and health could be considered irrelevant.  Could be money or perhaps he's a Cubs fan.

My guess is money.  The Astros are in a use it or lose it situation with their second pick.  Plus, with a plethora of top level injured players, picks 37 and 46 could be huge

[Reuben]

Hard to imagine that personality and health could be considered irrelevant.  Could be money or perhaps he's a Cubs fan.

My guess is money.  The Astros are in a use it or lose it situation with their second pick.  Plus, with a plethora of top level injured players, picks 37 and 46 could be huge

Law was responding to a question that directly asked if money was why the Astros might not be interested and he indicated otherwise.

By health issue I mean maybe something that Law in his expert opinion doesn't think is a big deal but the Astros do. But I have no clue what that could be, or how anyone would know about it.

Maybe Rodgers has Close as his agent, and that's what he meant. He also said "may be giving them pause" so it's entirely speculative.

[pots]

Law was responding to a question that directly asked if money was why the Astros might not be interested and he indicated otherwise.

By health issue I mean maybe something that Law in his expert opinion doesn't think is a big deal but the Astros do. But I have no clue what that could be, or how anyone would know about it.

Maybe Rodgers has Close as his agent, and that's what he meant. He also said "may be giving them pause" so it's entirely speculative.

Yeah I read the question and answer a couple of times.  It's 2 questions.  One is why would they pass and the second is money.   And the money question is just a couple of dollar signs.  He mentions nothing in his response about money.  and eludes to an irrelevant factor.  Which for most analysts, signability is irrelevant.  Health is almost never irrelevant.  Personality is usually not irrelevant and often referred to as intangibles. 

So my guess is either some weird statistic that Law does not believe in or he meant signability.  (whether that be due to Close, money demands, etc.).  Law is purposefully being vague.  Likely due to talking out his a__.  I mean when an analyst admits it's all hearsay and not from a "reliable" source, you know it's just wild speculation.

[Jacksonian]

Yeah I read the question and answer a couple of times.  It's 2 questions.  One is why would they pass and the second is money.   And the money question is just a couple of dollar signs.  He mentions nothing in his response about money.  and eludes to an irrelevant factor.  Which for most analysts, signability is irrelevant.  Health is almost never irrelevant.  Personality is usually not irrelevant and often referred to as intangibles. 

So my guess is either some weird statistic that Law does not believe in or he meant signability.  (whether that be due to Close, money demands, etc.).  Law is purposefully being vague.  Likely due to talking out his a__.  I mean when an analyst admits it's all hearsay and not from a "reliable" source, you know it's just wild speculation.

The only problem I see in this is that you didn't use the words "Law" and "ass" in the same sentence.  You really need to work harder.

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDaniel of FG on what he's hearing about the D-Backs and their plans for 1/1:

The one exception is at #1 overall, as I’ve heard from multiple sources that the D’Backs have engaged [Georgia prep C Tyler] Stephenson about a cut-rate deal as the top pick in the draft. The D’Backs are also on New York prep CF Garrett Whitley, who Stewart scouted again last night and is also believed to have been approached about a cut rate deal at #1 overall as well. The industry speculation is that the D’Backs’ preference is Whitley over Stephenson as cut-rate options at #1 overall and Georgia prep CF Daz Cameron (son of Mike Cameron) is also rumored to be in the mix, but likely behind Whitley and Stephenson. At this point, I’d call [Dillon] Tate and these three high school player the co-favorites to go #1 overall until more information comes in, as it’s clear to the whole industry that Arizona doesn’t know what they’re going to do yet.

He also indentifies the price tag for SS Brendan Rodgers is "at least" $6MM and Tate would be "just below" that.

[BudGirl]

The only problem I see in this is that you didn't use the words "Law" and "ass" in the same sentence.  You really need to work harder.

if only he had used a comma

[jbm]

He also indentifies the price tag for SS Brendan Rodgers is "at least" $6MM and Tate would be "just below" that.

It seems like in the slotted system, leaking out hard demands is risky.  "Appel to the Pirates" should be in the forefront of the agent's mind.

[pots]

Kiley McDaniel of FG on what he's hearing about the D-Backs and their plans for 1/1:

He also indentifies the price tag for SS Brendan Rodgers is "at least" $6MM and Tate would be "just below" that.

Take Tate at 5.9 and you have 1.5 million for later.  Could easily make a 3.5 million dollar pick at 37 (which comes before the Diamondbacks second pick of the draft). 

[Jacksonian]

Take Tate at 5.9 and you have 1.5 million for later.  Could easily make a 3.5 million dollar pick at 37 (which comes before the Diamondbacks second pick of the draft).

They also have pick 5.  An underslot deal could add another 1 mil or so.

[pots]

They also have pick 5.  An underslot deal could add another 1 mil or so.

Plus if they sign all their top 10 picks they could go $868,519 over without losing a draft pick.

[Reuben]

This doesn't seem like a draft where a $3-4m-type player is going to be available at #37, though, does it?

[Reuben]

BA came out with their Top 100 Draft Prospects today.
1-10:
Rodgers
Swanson
Tate
Funk
Bregman
Cameron
Fulmer
Garrett Whitley
Nikorak
Tucker

[pots]

This doesn't seem like a draft where a $3-4m-type player is going to be available at #37, though, does it?

Actually I read the opposite.  Certainly a bunch of injured guys that could drop

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDaniel ‏@kileymcd  46 minutes ago
Daz Cameron's school lost the rubber match of their playoff series tonight & are eliminated. Daz was 0/3 with a K in his last AB in the 7th.

[Nate Colbert]

Brian McTaggart ⚾️ ‏@brianmctaggart 49 minutes ago
Astros will hold invitation-only pre-Draft workouts on the last week of May in LA, Atlanta and Orlando and on June 6 in Houston.

[Nate Colbert]

Both BA and FG released mock drafts today. The lists:

BA 5/8 Mock Draft
1. Tate
2. Swanson
3. Rodgers
4. Jon Harris
5. Tucker

FG 5/8 Mock Draft
1. Swanson
2. Rodgers
3. Tate
4. Funkhouser
5. Cameron

Kiley McDonald does make the statement that the "buzz" is the Astros want 2 bats at #2 and #5.

As one would expect with the draft still a month away, if you go to the links and read what John Manuel and McDaniel have to say they're heavily caveated, present alternative scenarios, etc, etc, etc. Don't bother reading unless your dick really gets hard over this kind of stuff. It's called draft porn for a reason.

[Nate Colbert]

There was this small nugget of information in the BA mock draft linked to above--Mac Marshall left his last start at Chipola with a "minor nerve issue" in his left elbow. That after missing 6 weeks prior to that with the broken thumb.

[Reuben]

Actually I read the opposite.  Certainly a bunch of injured guys that could drop

Well it's very possible that you've paid better attention than me. I'm assuming Matuella and Allard go in the Top 20 (a la Hoffman, Fedde, Giolito), Aiken is irrelevant for the Astros, Kirby seems likely to go before #37. Who else is there that's viewed as a Top-15-type talent?

I realize, of course, that a lot can change between now and June 8th, and that there may also be signability guys (a la McCullers) who drop that far, too.

[Nate Colbert]

From the Comical:

According to a top American League scout, the 11 players currently under the Astros’ consideration for the No. 2 and 5 picks include five righthanded pitchers and six position players. The pitchers are Vanderbilt’s Walker Buehler and Carson Fulmer, Louisville’s Kyle Funkhouser, UC Santa Barbara’s Dillon Tate and Stroudsburg (Penn.) High’s Mike Nikorak. The position players are Lake Mary (Fla.) High shortstop Brendan Rodgers, who is currently rated as the top prospect in this draft by Baseball America, outfielder Daz Cameron of Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy of McDonough, Georgia, Vanderbilt shortstop Dansby Swanson, LSU shortstop Alex Bregman, University of Cincinnati outfielder Ian Happ and Tucker.

All are either expected names or guys previously tied to the Astros.

Luhnow was at Angel Stadium with the Astros for the start of the four-game series against the Angels on Thursday before going on a scouting trip Friday.

I would guess he's in Fullerton to watch Dillon Tate. A pretty darn good pitcher on the hill as well for CS-F: Thomas Eshelman who was the subject of a recent SI profile. Extreme command guy who may go 3rd-5th round.

[Nate Colbert]

Nick Piecoro ‏@nickpiecoro  21 minutes ago
Spotted at least two GMs here watching Dillon Tate: Dbacks' Dave Stewart and Astros' Jeff Luhnow.

[Nate Colbert]

I would guess he's in Fullerton to watch Dillon Tate. A pretty darn good pitcher on the hill as well for CS-F: Thomas Eshelman who was the subject of a recent SI profile. Extreme command guy who may go 3rd-5th round.

Shortest outing of the year for Mr. Tate: 5.2 IP 5 H 2 ER 4 W 8 K.

Eshelman had the better of it in the game: 8 IP 3 H 0 ER 1 W 9 K. Check out his #s for the year: 95/6 strikeouts to walks in 96.1 IP.

[Nate Colbert]

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--as noted previously, earliest exit of the year for Tate as he lasted just 5 ⅔ against Cal State-Fullerton. Never drafted.
• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--went 1-7 in first 2 games of series against Florida before swatting 2 longballs in series finale (#8 & #9). Now .348/.440/.617 for the year. 12 for 14 in SBs. 34 walks vs 36 strikeouts. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--went 4-12 with 2 BBs and 2 SBs vs #21 Mizzou. Puts his season numbers at .337/.424/.584. Just 17 strikeouts in 205 ABs. 28 out of 35 in SBs. 29th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--something of a repeat of last week’s start against Clemson, getting ripped early by Florida State (6 runs allowed and 67 pitches thrown in first 2 innings with very shaky command) before settling in over the next 3 frames. Overall 5/6/6/5/5/6. Never drafted.
• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--in a huge matchup against #8 Florida, the smallish righty came up...huge. CG shutout over the Gators with 11 whiffs and still tossing 95 mph gas into the 9th. Threw 124 pitches. 118 Ks now in 86.1 IP this season. 15th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--kept Vandy in the game vs the Gators but that was about it (6.1/6/4/4/3/5). Threw 106 pitches. 66 Ks in 63 IP this season. Missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness. 14th round selections in 2012 out of HS.
• Ian Happ, Cincinnati INF/OF--the switch-hitter had a terrific weekend against UConn going 4-9 with 4 walks, a HBP, 2 doubles (#14 & #15) and 5 SBs. Currently at .370/.500/.688. 46 walks and 47 strikeouts in 173 ABs. Now 10-17 in SBs. Possible 2B in pros but currently playing OF for the Bearcats. Never drafted.[/b]

[pots]

Well it's very possible that you've paid better attention than me. I'm assuming Matuella and Allard go in the Top 20 (a la Hoffman, Fedde, Giolito), Aiken is irrelevant for the Astros, Kirby seems likely to go before #37. Who else is there that's viewed as a Top-15-type talent?

I realize, of course, that a lot can change between now and June 8th, and that there may also be signability guys (a la McCullers) who drop that far, too.

What I read was the draft while lacking a lot of elite talent guys, still has a good amount of players that are expected to be able to reach the majors.  It's my guess there is going to be a decent number of picks made in the first 15 picks that weren't suppose to go that early driving down some talented players.  And then you are choosing between the injured players and other highly talented players.  And some folks will fall.    And as you mention, add the signability factor in and you have a mess.  Anyways, a lack of top tier talent with the same number of major league potential prospects should make for some opportunities around the Stros 3rd and 4th picks. 

[Jacksonian]

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--as noted previously, earliest exit of the year for Tate as he lasted just 5 ⅔ against Cal State-Fullerton. Never drafted.
• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--went 1-7 in first 2 games of series against Florida before swatting 2 longballs in series finale (#8 & #9). Now .348/.440/.617 for the year. 12 for 14 in SBs. 34 walks vs 36 strikeouts. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--went 4-12 with 2 BBs and 2 SBs vs #21 Mizzou. Puts his season numbers at .337/.424/.584. Just 17 strikeouts in 205 ABs. 28 out of 35 in SBs. 29th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--something of a repeat of last week’s start against Clemson, getting ripped early by Florida State (6 runs allowed and 67 pitches thrown in first 2 innings with very shaky command) before settling in over the next 3 frames. Overall 5/6/6/5/5/6. Never drafted.
• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--in a huge matchup against #8 Florida, the smallish righty came up...huge. CG shutout over the Gators with 11 whiffs and still tossing 95 mph gas into the 9th. Threw 124 pitches. 118 Ks now in 86.1 IP this season. 15th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--kept Vandy in the game vs the Gators but that was about it (6.1/6/4/4/3/5). Threw 106 pitches. 66 Ks in 63 IP this season. Missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness. 14th round selections in 2012 out of HS.
• Ian Happ, Cincinnati INF/OF--the switch-hitter had a terrific weekend against UConn going 4-9 with 4 walks, a HBP, 2 doubles (#14 & #15) and 5 SBs. Currently at .370/.500/.688. 46 walks and 47 strikeouts in 173 ABs. Now 10-17 in SBs. Possible 2B in pros but currently playing OF for the Bearcats. Never drafted.[/b]

Fulmer again.  I can't help but think that despite his size and the pudnits' view of his mechanics that he's seriously in the running for #2 and/or #5.  Never injured and lights out stuff.

[pots]

Don't have access to the article but BPs mock today has:

1. Whitley
2. Swanson
3. Rodgers

edit:
The letters came off the finger tips but in the wrong order. 

[Nate Colbert]

1. Whilety Whitley
2. Swanson
3. Rodgers

From the writeup:

The Diamondbacks haven’t come close to finalizing this decision, as I’ve been told they’re debating names like Dansby Swanson, Dillon Tate, and even Tyler Stephenson. Right now I believe the choice is Whitley though—for a number substantially lower than the $8.6 million dollars the slot comes with, and with three potential 60 tools, it’s not as massive a reach as some might believe.

[roadrunner]

Don't have access to the article but BPs mock today has:

1. Whitley
2. Swanson
3. Rodgers

edit:
The letters came off the finger tips but in the wrong order.

Alex Bregman (2B) at #5 to the Astros

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDaniel with this update after the weekend's performances:

UPDATE 5/11/15: Notes from this weekend’s college games: Dillon Tate was solid in front of GM’s from Arizona, Houston and Colorado. Dansby Swanson was even better, in front of decision makers from all the top teams, including Houston, who may still be debating whether they’d take Swanson or Rodgers if given the choice (Rodgers’ season is over). Carson Fulmer did what he usually does and probably has a home from picks 7-17 depending on how things fall on draft day, with an evaluation similar to Marcus Stroman and Sonny Gray as previous undersized righties with stellar track records and plus stuff.

[Nate Colbert]

Fulmer again.  I can't help but think that despite his size and the pudnits' view of his mechanics that he's seriously in the running for #2 and/or #5.  Never injured and lights out stuff.

I've seen a number of his games on TV this year and have come away impressed every time despite the occasional command issues. The "max effort" delivery issue, I don't see how that pigeonholes him as a future reliever because he's still throwing hard late in games. Now if the "pudnits" are concerned that such a delivery is putting all sorts of stress on the arm and he's ripe for a breakdown, then maybe that's a reason to stay away. Otherwise, at this stage I won't be disappointed if the Astros take him (in an underslot deal of course).

[Nate Colbert]

Following is a series of tweets from Kiley McDaniel (I've consolidated into a single entry for greater readability) which gives some insight into what may be the D-Backs thought process:

Source: D'Backs have reached out to HS players other than GWhitley, TStephenson & DCameron about below slot deal as the #1 overall pick. Industry buzz still is ARZ leaning college at 1-1 & is price-shopping under guise of 1-1 bargain to find over-slot targets for picks 43 & 76. ARZ will save at least $2.5 million vs slot on the 1st overall pick & possibly as much as $5 million, to then apply savings to other picks. Savings would allow ARZ to hypothetically call player still on the board at #17 & tell him they have more than 17th slot for him at pick 43. Then player tells teams he wants $1M more than 17th slot to sign, increasing odds he slips to #43. This happened multiple times in '14 Draft.

If you're not already doing so, give him a follow: @kileymcd

[Reuben]

Alex Bregman (2B) at #5 to the Astros

I guess it could fit the purest definition of "take the Best Player Available," but I would be pretty shocked if they took Swanson AND Bregman. Not only are they same-age SSs (creating logistical problems with where to play them as they go through the minors), but they seem like very similar profiles - fast and "gritty" with plus hit tool, not much HR power, good plate discipline, and neither strikes out very much. The main difference seems to be Swanson is regarded as a better fielder, while Bregman may or may not be a MLB-caliber SS, depending who you ask.

[kevwun]

I don't think both being shortstops is that big of a concern.  It shouldn't be much of a problem to move one of them to another position if they like them both that much.

[juliogotay]

I don't think both being shortstops is that big of a concern.  It shouldn't be much of a problem to move one of them to another position if they like them both that much.

Yes, let's expend two very early picks on guys playing the same positions as Correa and Altuve.

[kevwun]

If someone can competently play shortstop and also hit, finding a spot for them to play isn't a problem.  I'm not saying they should draft either guy, but if they think they're the best option at those two picks, it can be made to work.

[Reuben]

If someone can competently play shortstop and also hit, finding a spot for them to play isn't a problem.  I'm not saying they should draft either guy, but if they think they're the best option at those two picks, it can be made to work.

Sure, or they could be trade bait down the line. I still would be very very surprised if they drafted both.

[Jacksonian]

Sure, or they could be trade bait down the line. I still would be very very surprised if they drafted both.

I think that given Luhnow's track record of secrecy everything out there in print is a smokescreen.

[pots]

I think that given Luhnow's track record of secrecy everything out there in print is a smokescreen.

In the post-Heck era, it's been consensus.  Lot's of predraft names floated around, then they've taken the one that tops everyone's list.  Just 2 years so far, but Appel and Aiken were the consensus #1.  Small sample size of course.  But if they stay consistent, Mr Rodgers will be in the neighborhood. 

[Jacksonian]

In the post-Heck era, it's been consensus.  Lot's of predraft names floated around, then they've taken the one that tops everyone's list.  Just 2 years so far, but Appel and Aiken were the consensus #1.  Small sample size of course.  But if they stay consistent, Mr Rodgers will be in the neighborhood.

This year looks much more like the Correa year to me.

[pots]

This year looks much more like the Correa year to me.

Correa was Heck.  Luhnow didn't want to mess with the draft so he let Heck finish out his job through the draft.  That's not to say Elias can't do the same. 

Your Fuhmer pick at #2 would be like a Correa pick.  Well at least at this point.  This year seems so unstable.  Fuhmer could be at the top of the draft lists by the time June 8th roles around. 

[Jacksonian]

Correa was Heck.  Luhnow didn't want to mess with the draft so he let Heck finish out his job through the draft.  That's not to say Elias can't do the same. 

Your Fuhmer pick at #2 would be like a Correa pick.  Well at least at this point.  This year seems so unstable.  Fuhmer could be at the top of the draft lists by the time June 8th roles around.

I meant from the standpoint of the volatility of the top 3 or so.  The Aiken and Appel years seemed to be fairly stable with the names at the top.  This year not as much.

[pots]

I meant from the standpoint of the volatility of the top 3 or so.  The Aiken and Appel years seemed to be fairly stable with the names at the top.  This year not as much.

There is not suppose to be any confusion with the top spot.  Rodgers is suppose to be 3-hitter talent that should be able to stick at shortstop.  Arizona is apparently is upsetting the apple cart by trying to save a few million on the first pick.   

And then there is the Astros, who some folks are saying the Astros are not in on Rodgers.  Though that is admittedly hearsay by Law.  It will be interesting if the Astros buck the consensus BPA, because they really haven't done that since Elias has taken over (admittedly a small sample size). 

[Reuben]

There is not suppose to be any confusion with the top spot.  Rodgers is suppose to be 3-hitter talent that should be able to stick at shortstop.  Arizona is apparently is upsetting the apple cart by trying to save a few million on the first pick.   

And then there is the Astros, who some folks are saying the Astros are not in on Rodgers.  Though that is admittedly hearsay by Law.  It will be interesting if the Astros buck the consensus BPA, because they really haven't done that since Elias has taken over (admittedly a small sample size).

This was interesting, from BA's Top 100 Draft Chat:

Alan (Austin, TX): What's keeping AZ/HOU from selecting Rodgers? (Assuming rumors have merit) Make-up concerns?
Teddy Cahill: I don’t want to speak for the D-backs or the Astros here. I’m not privy to their thinking. And they may very well take him. But I don’t think that the industry views Rodgers as some sort of slam dunk first overall pick. He does a lot of things very well and looks like a future big leaguer. But in a more typical year, he might not be at the top of the class.

[AllHailCaptainCorrea]

Correa was Heck.  Luhnow didn't want to mess with the draft so he let Heck finish out his job through the draft.  That's not to say Elias can't do the same. 

Your Fuhmer pick at #2 would be like a Correa pick.  Well at least at this point.  This year seems so unstable.  Fuhmer could be at the top of the draft lists by the time June 8th roles around.

Heck was just a  figurehead by that point. They only kept that group in place because they had already been scouting the 2012 class for several months. There is no doubt in my mind that Heck with final say would have gone with Buxton looking at his past picks for the team (raw, toolsy guys with upside and speed to burn like Springer and DDJ). Heck always said he liked to pick "best athlete available". Luhnow brought Elias in prior to that draft and Elias was one of the guys blown away by Correa's workout in Kissimmee. Correa was Luhnow/Elias all the way.

[AllHailCaptainCorrea]

I guess it could fit the purest definition of "take the Best Player Available," but I would be pretty shocked if they took Swanson AND Bregman. Not only are they same-age SSs (creating logistical problems with where to play them as they go through the minors), but they seem like very similar profiles - fast and "gritty" with plus hit tool, not much HR power, good plate discipline, and neither strikes out very much. The main difference seems to be Swanson is regarded as a better fielder, while Bregman may or may not be a MLB-caliber SS, depending who you ask.

I agree. They won't pick both of them. I could see them picking Rodgers and Bregman due to the age difference but not Swanson and Bregman. I also think that Swanson has more pop than he's given credit for. I think he can be a 15 to 18 homer guys with a lot of doubles. And Bregman is just a damn good hitter with great instincts who wouldn't whiff every other ab. The more of those guys......the better.

[juliogotay]

I agree. They won't pick both of them. I could see them picking Rodgers and Bregman due to the age difference but not Swanson and Bregman. I also think that Swanson has more pop than he's given credit for. I think he can be a 15 to 18 homer guys with a lot of doubles. And Bregman is just a damn good hitter with great instincts who wouldn't whiff every other ab. The more of those guys......the better.

Welcome to the board by the way.

[Mr. Happy]

Welcome to the board by the way.

+1

[pots]

Heck was just a  figurehead by that point. They only kept that group in place because they had already been scouting the 2012 class for several months. There is no doubt in my mind that Heck with final say would have gone with Buxton looking at his past picks for the team (raw, toolsy guys with upside and speed to burn like Springer and DDJ). Heck always said he liked to pick "best athlete available". Luhnow brought Elias in prior to that draft and Elias was one of the guys blown away by Correa's workout in Kissimmee. Correa was Luhnow/Elias all the way.

No doubt Elias had input on the choices made for the 2012 draft,  But I disagree with the figurehead comment.  Heck and the people he put in place did all leg work for that draft.  And Heck was heavily involved in it right to the end.  Heck was very big on up the middle defensive positions early in the draft.  Certainly both Correa and Buxton fit that bill.   Neither of which would have been a bad choice.  And from everything I've read that choice was made the day of the draft.  And the financial flexibility that Correa provided was likely the final factor. 

[Reuben]

Your initial point, though, was that Luhnow had a pattern of taking the consensus BPA. And I don't think that's true, regardless of the extent to which Correa was a Heck-driven choice. In 2013 consensus was about 50/50 Gray-Appel, with Bryant close behind. Even in 2014 when Aiken became the consensus #1 by Draft day, in some ways the Astros bucked expectations by not taking Rodon. I don't think we can assume they'll take Rodgers even if the Dbacks don't.

[Jacksonian]

I'm getting the sense that there really isn't a consensus #1 BPA.  I know all the early talk was Rodgers, but there hasn't been the kind of discussion about him now that you'd expect to hear if everyone who works in the field thought he was THE guy, even if Arizona didn't take him.

I am certain that the Astros will get their guy at #2 and likely their guy at #5, whoever those guys are.

[astrosfan76]

I agree. They won't pick both of them. I could see them picking Rodgers and Bregman due to the age difference but not Swanson and Bregman. I also think that Swanson has more pop than he's given credit for. I think he can be a 15 to 18 homer guys with a lot of doubles. And Bregman is just a damn good hitter with great instincts who wouldn't whiff every other ab. The more of those guys......the better.

I'm going to preface this by admitting that I'm not the biggest Swanson fan (not at #2, at least), but what exactly makes you think that his HR power is underrated? 

[pots]

Your initial point, though, was that Luhnow had a pattern of taking the consensus BPA. And I don't think that's true, regardless of the extent to which Correa was a Heck-driven choice. In 2013 consensus was about 50/50 Gray-Appel, with Bryant close behind. Even in 2014 when Aiken became the consensus #1 by Draft day, in some ways the Astros bucked expectations by not taking Rodon. I don't think we can assume they'll take Rodgers even if the Dbacks don't.

The Appel/Gray tie was broken by the positive drug testing from what I remember.  I think everyone had Aiken at the top by draft day last year.  In 2012, Appel was considered the consensus #1.   Given Luhnow said that Appel was their guy from start to finish in 2013, tends to make me think Heck had a lot to do with Correa being the choice in 2012.  But my opinion is definitely all inference.  I can find no definitive quote anywhere that gives the level of influence Elias had.  The scouts given the credit for Correa were Larry Pardo (Heck's guy) and Joey Sola (not sure if he was hired pre-Heck or not).

[jbm]

I really dislike the term "consensus #1."  It's a terribly flawed concept for multiple reasons, especially in the slot system where teams picking at the top are not so much determining who they rate the highest and instead are determining who provides the greatest value.  It's more like buying a stock in that you aren't determining which company will generate  the most cash in an absolute sense, but which company generates the most relative to their price. 

It's obvious Luhnow understands this, and other GMs as well.  Surprisingly, some agents still don't understand the new system, as evidenced by the hard signing numbers they throw out.  That is no longer the game.

[AllHailCaptainCorrea]

Welcome to the board by the way.

Thanks!

[AllHailCaptainCorrea]

I'm going to preface this by admitting that I'm not the biggest Swanson fan (not at #2, at least), but what exactly makes you think that his HR power is underrated?

My uncle's a Vandy guy so I'm forced to watch them more than I'd like. He's not a punch-and-judy hitter. He hit a ton of doubles last year and some of them have started turning into homeruns this year. Will he ever hit 20? I doubt it. But 15 or a bit more isn't out of the question at all.

[pots]

But 15 or a bit more isn't out of the question at all.

At shortstop that's pretty good.  And welcome to the board

[juliogotay]

My uncle's a Vandy guy so I'm forced to watch them more than I'd like. He's not a punch-and-judy hitter. He hit a ton of doubles last year and some of them have started turning into homeruns this year. Will he ever hit 20? I doubt it. But 15 or a bit more isn't out of the question at all.

Luhnow has a history picking Vandy guys.

[hostros7]

It's more like buying a stock in that you aren't determining which company will generate  the most cash in an absolute sense, but which company generates the most relative to their price. 

This analogy is flawed and/or an oversimplification.  Drafting in the MLB is far more similar to buying far out of the money call options than buying stocks.  Therefore, it follows that the an analysis on the likelihood/ability to reach the strike price (i.e. make the show) is more influential in the decision making process than the price of the option.  Obviously, price of the underlying asset comes into play more when conviction regarding ability to make it to the bigs is lower (i.e. Payout higher on the cheaper option when two seemingly equal options have same probability of reaching the strike price or appreciating in value where they can be "sold" (traded) at a gain).

There is more to say on that topic and my analogy is, too, an oversimplification, but I find it a more useful framework for discussion.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[pots]

Luhnow has a history picking Vandy guys.

That led to a trivia question.  Which college has Luhnow drafted from the most over the last 3 years combined?

Answer:
Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College

[AllHailCaptainCorrea]

The Appel/Gray tie was broken by the positive drug testing from what I remember.  I think everyone had Aiken at the top by draft day last year.  In 2012, Appel was considered the consensus #1.   Given Luhnow said that Appel was their guy from start to finish in 2013, tends to make me think Heck had a lot to do with Correa being the choice in 2012.  But my opinion is definitely all inference.  I can find no definitive quote anywhere that gives the level of influence Elias had.  The scouts given the credit for Correa were Larry Pardo (Heck's guy) and Joey Sola (not sure if he was hired pre-Heck or not).

Elias was hired in January of 2012 and was considered Luhnow's "right-hand man" in St. Louis. There is no question that Heck had input but I think Elias had a bunch of pull as well.

The Houston Astros amateur scouting director helped select Carlos Correa in 2012 then made the call to draft Mark Appel first overall in 2013.

http://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/astros-elias-details-search-for-elite-draft-talent/

Luhnow on Elias:

"I knew that I wanted him over here," Luhnow said. "He could help in a variety of ways. At the time, I didn't know if he would end up being a scouting director or farm director or assistant general manager. I knew there would be some role for him. He did such a nice job helping [former scouting director] Bobby [Heck] out in that first Draft."

http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2014/5/29/5761432/thursdays-three-astros-things

Elias was also based in Florida already due to his time with the Cards and was one of the guys at Correa's workout.

Astros staff was "blown away" by Carlos Correa's workout in Kissimee this weekend. One says he's the best Puerto Rican talent since Beltran

https://twitter.com/pgammo/status/206874435104419841

[pots]

Elias was hired in January of 2012 and was considered Luhnow's "right-hand man" in St. Louis. There is no question that Heck had input but I think Elias had a bunch of pull as well.

The Houston Astros amateur scouting director helped select Carlos Correa in 2012 then made the call to draft Mark Appel first overall in 2013.

http://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/astros-elias-details-search-for-elite-draft-talent/

Luhnow on Elias:

"I knew that I wanted him over here," Luhnow said. "He could help in a variety of ways. At the time, I didn't know if he would end up being a scouting director or farm director or assistant general manager. I knew there would be some role for him. He did such a nice job helping [former scouting director] Bobby [Heck] out in that first Draft."

http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2014/5/29/5761432/thursdays-three-astros-things

Elias was also based in Florida already due to his time with the Cards and was one of the guys at Correa's workout.

Astros staff was "blown away" by Carlos Correa's workout in Kissimee this weekend. One says he's the best Puerto Rican talent since Beltran

https://twitter.com/pgammo/status/206874435104419841

Yes he helped out, no doubt.    Joey Sola made the comment about Beltran

[Nate Colbert]

That led to a trivia question.  Which college has Luhnow drafted from the most over the last 3 years combined?

Answer:
Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College

Don't know whether you want to call it a trend or not, but Oklahoma jucos do seem to be on the radar for Luhnow & Co. They took a total of 6 guys from Oklahoma jucos last year: NEO A&M (3), Western Oklahoma State College (2) and Connors State (1). You could toss the kid from Neosho CC in there (Southeastern Kansas) to make it 7. And they drafted a player from Seminole State College in 2013.

The 3 players taken from NEO actually ties with Wake Forest (Brian Holmes, Michael Dimock and Pat Blair--all taken in 2012).

[Nate Colbert]

Callis on what Arizona may be thinking. Like Kiley McDaniel's recent comments, he thinks reports linking the D-Backs to folks like Whitley or Stephenson at 1/1 is a smoke screen. His "gut feel" is that Swanson is the frontrunner for Stewart & Co.

The assigned bonus-pool value for the top choice is $8,616,900, and no one in this Draft is going to command close to that. Arizona can take whomever it believes is the best player and save at least $2 million that can be allocated to other selections. There's no need to do a discount of $4 million or more, and it's unlikely there will be enough quality players to spend that much extra money on in later rounds.

[astrosfan76]

Callis on what Arizona may be thinking. Like Kiley McDaniel's recent comments, he thinks reports linking the D-Backs to folks like Whitley or Stephenson at 1/1 is a smoke screen. His "gut feel" is that Swanson is the frontrunner for Stewart & Co.

He goes on in the mailbag to show just how weak this draft is in high-end talent by saying that Swanson/Tate would have gone 8th (or at least been the 8th-best talent) in '13 (behind Moran) and 7th in '14.  For reference, Rodgers would have been 4th/3rd in those respective drafts.   

[astrosfan76]

My uncle's a Vandy guy so I'm forced to watch them more than I'd like. He's not a punch-and-judy hitter. He hit a ton of doubles last year and some of them have started turning into homeruns this year. Will he ever hit 20? I doubt it. But 15 or a bit more isn't out of the question at all.

Fair enough.  I don't think he'll hit 15 on an annual basis, though he may hit it on occasion.  From '12-14, hitting 15 HR would put him in the top 5 or 6 of shortstops each season.  Over that time, there's only been one shortstop who has hit 15 HR in each of those seasons:  Ian Desmond.  There have been guys who have in two of three seasons, there have been guys who have hit in the mid-twenties, but doing it year-in and year-out is a rarity at that position (at least until Correa comes up...). 

[Reuben]

BA's 2.0 Mock came out today and has the Dbacks taking Carson Fulmer #1. They say Tate's stock seems to be sliding a bit due to a perception that he might be tiring out, and is relying more and more on his slider rather than the FB.

They have the Astros taking Swanson and Tucker, saying rumor is Luhnow loves all 3 Vandy guys including Buehler.

Rodgers and Tate they have going 3 and 4, Funkhouser 15th, Aiken 24th to the Dodgers, Matuella 34th to Detroit, Kirby 36th to AO's.

[Nate Colbert]

From this week's Inside Baseball column:

[Daz] Cameron has drawn more interest from others in the top 10 and is being advised by Scott Boras, so a cut-rate deal may be less likely for him.

[pots]

They have the Astros taking Swanson and Tucker, saying rumor is Luhnow loves all 3 Vandy guys including Buehler.

Kyle is suppose to be better than his brother....sold!

[Nate Colbert]

Yavapai defeated Southern Nevada today to advance to the JUCO World Series, thus ending Phil Bickford's season. The former 10th overall pick (2013) had 166 whiffs vs 21 walks in 86.2 IP this year.

Current mocks have him going mid to late 1st round.

[austro]

Yavapai defeated Southern Nevada today to advance to the JUCO World Series, thus ending Phil Bickford's season. The former 10th overall pick (2013) had 166 whiffs vs 21 walks in 86.2 IP this year.

Current mocks have him going mid to late 1st round.

I'm headed to Grand Junction next week to watch the first four or five days of the JUCO World Series. Anybody from Yavapai (or any of the other qualifiers) that I should keep an eye out for?

[Nate Colbert]

I'm headed to Grand Junction next week to watch the first four or five days of the JUCO World Series. Anybody from Yavapai (or any of the other qualifiers) that I should keep an eye out for?

Yavapai's Chandler Eden, the former Oregon State pitcher, going into the season was one of the top-ranked JUCO draft prospects. He's had something of a rough season with 36 walks in 38.1 IP and I haven't read much recently on him. Another guy to look for from Yavapai is Willie Calhoun, who was a 17th-rounder out of HS before playing one season at the U of Arizona. Has put up tremendous offensive numbers but isn't a very big kid and may be defensively-challenged. INF Luke Doyle might also be a guy for the Roughriders to check out.

Chipola was loaded with draft prospects (including Mac Marshall) but unfortunately got eliminated last weekend as well.

[Nate Colbert]

Weekend performances and news plus some draft & injury history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--struggled with command at times (though just the one walk) in Friday’s outing versus UCI: 7 IP, 8 H, 5 ER, 1 W, 8 K. Never drafted.
• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--had a 4-11 weekend against Alabama with 2 walks, 2 doubles (#18 & #19) and a SB. Now .347/.438/.616 for the year. 13 for 15 in SBs. 36 walks vs 37 strikeouts in 216 ABs. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--went 3-13 with 2 BBs and 1 HR vs South Carolina. Slash line now .329/.417/.577. Just 19 strikeouts in 222 ABs. 29 out of 38 in SBs. 29th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--lotsa baserunners but managed to limit the damage in the win against NC State (6 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 4 W, 7 K). 31 walks in 65.2 IP in ACC play this season. Never drafted.
• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--Bama ain’t Florida but nonetheless a dominant CG outing for the second week in a row. 9 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 4 W, 14 K. Threw 127 pitches. Kiley McDaniel was there and certainly liked what he saw and tweeted:
  

  Vandy righty Carson Fulmer showed me everything I wanted to see and more. No hits after the first, CG 2 hitter, 93-95 start to finish.

  132 Ks now in 95.1 IP this season. 15th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--had his fair share of baserunners Saturday versus Alabama but able to minimize the damage (6.2/7/1/1/3/6). 70 hits and 22 walks allowed in 69.2 IP this season with 72 strikeouts. Missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness. 14th round selections in 2012 out of HS.
• Ian Happ, Cincinnati INF/OF--the switch-hitter again dominated in a 3-game set, this time against East Carolina. Went 6-14 with a walk, 2 doubles (#17 & #18) and a longball (#14). Currently .366/.490/.681. 47 walks and 49 strikeouts in 191 ABs. Just 11-19 in SBs. Possible 2B in pros but currently playing OF for the Bearcats. Never drafted.

[Jacksonian]

Fulmer is the anti-Appel.

[Nate Colbert]

The eternal pissing contest between scouts and college coaches got a tad nastier recently (or at least more public).

[Lefty]

A vast majority of players who turn down contracts out of high school do not get an equal or higher contract offer out of college

It would be interesting to see more detail on this.

[Reuben]

Fulmer is the anti-Appel.

What do you mean exactly? That's he's super-intense and competitive on the mound?

[astrosfan76]

It would be interesting to see more detail on this.

There's also a level of context in that kind of statement. Before the slot/harder cap system went into effect, it was easier for a team to throw extra money at a HS kid, because no one really cares what Bud says about spending limits, right, Drayton? Anyway, teams have to think harder about those kinds of deals now because they have to balance things out with other picks. For a team that doesn't pick at the top/have extra picks, losing that cap space hurts even more. It doesn't mean the new system if flawless, or that no one is offering these types of deals any more, but the sample size is small. So, to say that players should sign out of HS or else waste three years is an incomplete picture, at this point.

[Nate Colbert]

Latest mock from BA (no change for Astros picks):

BA 5/17 Mock Draft
1. Fulmer (previous: Tate)
2. Swanson
3. Rodgers
4. Tate (previous: Harris)
5. Tucker

[Nate Colbert]

Next week, I will get to see a kid that is getting a fair amount of buzz in this area.  Trey Cabbage is a 3rd baseman who is committed to Tennessee.  According to two different sources, two Red Sox scouts were at his games this week.  My son's team plays them Monday & Tuesday of next week.  Any draft geeks heard about him?

Ranked #111 on the BA Top 500 Draft Prospects list which came out today.

[Nate Colbert]

From today's FG chat:

Q: Could you see the Astros pulling a fast one and grabbing someone like [Arkansas OF Andrew] Benetindi or someone else at 5 and save $ to reallocate?
   
Kiley McDaniel: Can’t rule that out and Mike Elias was among the heavy hitters in Saturday to see Benintendi, but I think it’ll be Bregman, Cameron or Tucker at 5 and little to no haircut on the bonus. Benintendi likely goes top 10 like those others, so not sure how much of a discount that will be.

If you haven't seen Benintendi, he's in action tonight in an SEC tourney game vs Tennessee televised at 8:00 (CT) on the SEC Network. Intriguing but undersized player.

Also from the chat:

Q: Anything new you’re hearing in regards to who the Astros would prefer between Rodgers and Swanson at #2?
   
Kiley McDaniel: Starting to think it’s Swanson, but he also might go 1st.

[Duman]

Ranked #111 on the BA Top 500 Draft Prospects list which came out today.

Our team ended up seeing him 5 times between regular and post season play.  He played SS against us and also pitched some.  He made some nice plays at SS but would be a better fit at 3rd or corner OF.  Word at the district tourney was that U of TN was looking at moving him to the outfield.  He has a very good bat.  He hit one out of pioneer park (Gville Astros home field) in their first district tourney game.  He hit it out to RF (LH Hitter) and it was a no doubter.  Word at the tourney was that if he is drafted in the higher rounds and got a good offer, he would sign and play pro ball.  I translate that to round doesn't matter as much as money does.

He also ran very well and showed good base running instincts as well. 

PS Son's team came out of the losers bracket and beat Grainger Co (Cabbage's team) twice to win the district championship.  The final game went to extra innings.  Cabbage showed class by walking over to our pitcher who threw a complete game and shaking his hand.  This happened after the hoopla had died down and most of his teammates had already left the field. 

[Nate Colbert]

Callis with another mock with these comments:

There's a growing sense that Swanson is the preferred choice of the D-backs, Astros and Rockies, who hold the first three picks.

The Astros are hot after Fulmer, so if Swanson goes No. 1 they could take the pitcher first and assume they'll get a shortstop -- Rodgers or Bregman -- three picks later.

Word was the Astros were going to take two position players with the highest pair of picks in Draft history, but Fulmer is changing that thinking. If they do opt for a second bat, Cameron, Tucker (whose brother Preston is an outfielder on Houston's big league club) and Bregman would be candidates.

[Nate Colbert]

Keith didn't get the memo about Fulmer:

ESPN.com’s Keith Law (Insider link) posts his first mock draft as June 8th draws near. While acknowledging that it is still early, Law predicts that the Diamondbacks will take Vanderbilt shortstop Dansby Swanson with the first overall pick while the Astros will add LSU shortstop Alex Bregman and high school outfielder Kyle Tucker with the second and fifth picks. Law adds that he does not expect Vandy righty Carson Fulmer to make it past the White Sox with the eighth pick.

[Nate Colbert]

In tonight's SEC tourney game versus the Ags:

Kendall Rogers ‏@KendallRogersD1  42 minutes ago
Carson Fulmer finished. 4 K's, 3 HR allowed, 6 ER, 6 H, 5 IP. Easily his worst start of the year.

[Nate Colbert]

Dansby, Dansby, Dansby...

Homers again tonight, 3rd in 2 games in the tournament.

Just added a double.

[Reuben]

I wonder if Rodgers' uncanny resemblance to Bronson Arroyo is what makes people so lukewarm on him.

[Nate Colbert]

Mock 3.0 from John Manuel/BA muddles the picture even more by elevating Illinois closer (but projected starter) Tyler Jay to the top spot as the Snakes pick:

“If you’re going to take a short college pitcher,” one scouting director said, “and you compare Jay to Fulmer, Jay does it easier, does it cleaner. He throws as hard (92-96 mph), maybe not as firm as Tate but he’s no slouch. He has as good or better breaking ball (a devastating mid-80s slide piece). He’s shown a good changeup. He’s been extended. He’s as athletic. And he’s lefthanded.”

[Jacksonian]

Mock 3.0 from John Manuel/BA muddles the picture even more by elevating Illinois closer (but projected starter) Tyler Jay to the top spot as the Snakes pick:

As has been written many times, Luhnow's draft board is as secret as any in baseball.  There is no telling where they stand right now.

[Reuben]

That sounds crazy, that a college closer could go #1 overall.

[roadrunner]

I'm starting to buy into Dansby.  I assume he would be a quick riser, and I'm pretty sure this question has been asked - where would everyone play?  Does Dansby have the arm to play 3B?  I know every scout says Correa is moving to 3B but he had such raving reviews as a defender last year.  Now that I think about it I haven't heard anything about his defense this year.  I know he bulked up in the offseason but he seems to be stealing bases, so I wouldn't think mobility at SS is an issue.

#ramblingpost

[Nate Colbert]

ICYMI, there was an article by Drellich the other day on Astros area scout John Martin who covers all of Florida excluding the panhandle. He was responsible for recommending/signing Preston Tucker and Lance McCullers. Other players of "his" include Brett Phillips, Nolan Fontana, James Ramsay, and Bryan Radziewski.

Not a long track record given he joined the Astros back in Oct. 2011 (Bobby Heck hire obviously). But the early returns are certainly promising. I'll be especially interested in any picks two weeks from now with his name attached.

ETA:
I chuckled at his comment from the article about scouting McCullers back then:

“He’s about a six-footer, right in there. (As a scout, you would record his height as) 6-1 if you like him, and 5-11 if you don’t.”

[Nate Colbert]

Dansby, Dansby, Dansby...

Homers again tonight, 3rd in 2 games in the tournament.

Just added a double.

And he hit his 4th longball of the tourney in today's pounding of the Aggies.

[Nate Colbert]

Conference tournament performances and news plus some draft & injury history:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--held out this weekend so he would be fully rested when the regionals start up on Friday. Never drafted.
• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--went 7-17 with 2 walks, a SB, 2 doubles and those 4 home runs in the first 4 games of the SEC tourney. Entered Sunday’s championship game at .352/.441/.661 for the year. 14 for 16 in SBs. 38 walks vs 39 strikeouts in 233 ABs. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--went 3-9 in 3 SEC tournament games with 1 BB and 3 SBs (giving him 32 steals in 41 attempts on the year). And he did a little bit of showing off in the field. Final slash line of .329/.417/.572. Just 20 strikeouts in 231 ABs. 29th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--an unimpressive showing versus Clemson in the ACC tourney (5 IP, 9 H, 5 ER, 2 W, 3 K). 33 walks in 70. 2 IP in ACC play this season. Never drafted.
• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--as has been noted, worst game of the year in Thursday’s tourney game vs A&M: 5 IP, 6 H, 6 ER, 1 W, 4 K. Whiffed 136 in 100.2 IP this year with 38 BBs. 15th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--wasn’t much better than Fulmer in the tourney rematch against the Aggies (4/6/3/3/2/2). 76 hits and 24 walks allowed in 73.2 IP this season with 74 strikeouts. Missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness. 14th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Ian Happ, Cincinnati INF/OF--the Bearcats went two and done in the AAC tournament (losses to the Coogs and Memphis), an unsurprising outcome for a team that went 15-41 on the year. The switch-hitting Happ did his part going 3-7 with a walk and a SB. Finished the year at .369/.492/.672. 49 walks and 49 strikeouts in 198 ABs. Just 12-20 in SBs. Possible 2B in pros but currently playing OF for the Bearcats. Never drafted.
• Tyler Jay, Illinois LHP--the Fighting Illini closer pitched twice in the B1G tournament, throwing a total of 2.2 scoreless frames while whiffing 3. K’d 65 in 56.2 innings in 2015 with just 6 walks. Listed at 6’1” 185 lbs. Never drafted.

[Mike S.]

David Rawnsley (Houston's former Assistant Scouting Director) with his latest mock draft:

http://www.si.com/mlb/2015/05/22/mlb-mock-draft-full-first-round-dansby-swanson-dillon-tate

[Nate Colbert]

BA profile of Daz Cameron.

[Nate Colbert]

With the draft about 10 or so days away, first in a series of posts recapping the more interesting guys who’s names are likely to be called. Some you will know, others I’ve already covered a bit in some earlier posts, while the remainder are more obscure. First up--

Those Who Will Fall (or Might Fall) Due to Injuries, Etc

• Mike Matuella, Duke RHP--out for season after TJS. Previously diagnosed with spondylolysis condition. Never drafted.
• Chris Shaw, Boston College 1B/OF--the 13th ranked prospect in the Cape Cod League (CCL) this past summer (per BA) and talked up as a potential late 1st rounder heading into 2015. The lefty swinger overall hacked to a .319/.411/.611 slash line with 20 walks and 26 strikeouts in 144 ABs. But a broken hamate caused him to miss 14 games. Returned for the final 8 games of the season where he went 6-26 with just one XBH. Probably not an issue long-term but might cause him to tick slightly lower in the draft. Played the outfield for the Eagles but a shift to 1B is likely at the next level. Listed at 6’3” 250 lbs. 26th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Joe McCarthy, Virginia OF--started all 60 games as a freshman in 2013 and was terrific (.336/.469/.453, 54 Ws vs 32 Ks) before slipping some in 2014 (.301/.417/.449, 35 Ws vs 34 Ks). Missed first 2 months of this season after undergoing back surgery and has been underperforming since (.208/.367/.236). 2nd/3rd rounder was the projection prior to the injury. The lefty hitter is listed at 6’3” 215 lbs. Never drafted.
• Gio Brusa, Pacific OF--a mammoth season was expected going into 2015 after being ranked by BA as the 4th-best prospect in the CCL last summer where he hit .322/.341/.545. But the resulting .291/.400/.527 numbers, while respectable, didn’t really match the hype. Those results came in just 30 games as a strained UCL in his right elbow shut down his season early. This was on top of a nagging injury of some sort that caused him to get off to a slow start. Moreover, there was a shoulder injury that supposedly caused his sophomore numbers to suffer (.257/.322/.406 in 2014). Late 1st/early 2nd rounder was the projection going in to the season but underperformance AND the injury issue likely drops him significantly. The switch-hitter is listed at 6’4” 205 lbs. 37th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Marc Brakeman, Stanford RHP--like Brusa, a terrific season in the Cape last summer was supposed to be a springboard for an outstanding junior year. BA rated him the 7th-best prospect in the CCL after he threw up 47 K/7 BB numbers in 33 IP with a FB touching 95. And the beginning of the year draft projections had him as 1S/2nd rounder. But what was reported as a shoulder injury caused him to be shut down after just 3 starts. He returned seven weeks later to make 6 more starts to end the season (on a limited pitch count in the first several of those). Overall the numbers in those 9 starts weren’t awful (35 K/11 B in 52.1 IP), just disappointing in the context of his Cape performance. So that plus lingering questions about his health have caused him to drop draft-wise. Listed at 6’1” 180 lbs. Never drafted.
• Mark Mathias, Cal Poly 2B--hit .386/.455/.490 as a sophomore and was selected over the summer to the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team. BA ranked him as the 13th-best prospect on the squad. Bigger things were expected of him coming in to his junior season. However, he missed 7 games at the beginning of 2015 as he worked his way back from offseason shoulder surgery and DH’d for a while when he first came back. As far as the offense, he “only” hit .352/.423/.435 with 23 walks and 17 strikeouts. Might have been capable of more if the shoulder had been fully healed at the start. Listed at 6’0” 200 lbs. 9 for 13 this year in steals. Never drafted.
• Tyler Ferguson, Vanderbilt RHP--considered perhaps as high as a 3rd-rounder coming into the year, 2015 for Mr. Ferguson has gone off the rails due to Steve Blass disease. Seeing limited action due to his problems, the junior has walked 34 in 19 IP. Has also uncorked 9 WPs and plunked 2 batters. Listed at 6’4” 225 lbs. 40th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• A.J. Minter, Aggie LHP--got off to a terrific start this year (and saw his draft stock rise accordingly) before TJS bit him. Only 21 IP before that happened. And he was limited to just 37 innings in 2013 and 2014 in part due to thoracic outlet syndrome. Listed at 6’0” 210 lbs. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Tyler Stubblefield, Aggie LHP--the draft-eligible sophomore missed nearly the entire year with a torn ACL until throwing ⅔ of an inning in a game at the end of the regular season and then 1⅓ frames in an SEC tourney game vs LSU. Listed at 6’5” 215 lbs. 36th round pick in 2013 out of Lufkin HS.
• Colin Poche, DBU LHP--the former Razorback pitcher and 5th-round pick of the Orioles in 2012 missed all of 2015 after undergoing TJS. Listed at 6’2” 215 lbs.
• Jake Lemoine, Coogs RHP--it was announced back in mid-March that the junior was going to miss 1-3 weeks with shoulder impingement. However, he hasn’t pitched since. Prior to the injury, allowed 24 hits in 24 IP over 5 starts with 4 BBs and 15 Ks. Unless teams are convinced that the shoulder is 100% healthy, his draft stock plummets. Listed at 6’5” 220 lbs. 21st round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Jon Duplantier, Rice RHP--a draft-eligible sophomore who missed all of 2015 with a shoulder issue. Like Lemoine, there was talk prior to the season of him being a possible 1st-rounder. Similarly, teams are gonna be very cautious when it comes to any type of shoulder problem. Listed at 6’4” 210 lbs. Never been drafted.
• Trevor Megill, LMU RHP--he missed all of 2014 after undergoing TJS (and still got drafted as the 104th overall pick). His post-surgical recovery was rocky at the beginning of 2015 but things improved as the season was winding down. In his three most recent starts (two of which were against West Coast Conference leaders San Diego and LMU), he allowed just 3 earned runs on 14 hits over 21 IP while striking out 22 and walking 7. So the trend is a positive one even if some of his numbers overall for the year might not necessarily blow you away--65 hits and 37 walks allowed in 70 IP with 70 whiffs. Listed at 6’8” 245 lbs. The 3rd highest pick from 2014 to not sign (3rd round, Cardinals).
• Justin Garza,  CSF RHP--BA had him rated last summer as the 14th best prospect on the Team USA National Collegiate Team. Made 12 starts this spring for the Titans until it was announced in mid-May he would have to undergo TJS. The numbers for the junior this year (73 hits and 14 walks allowed in 65 innings with 53 strikeouts) were nowhere near as impressive as his freshman and sophomore seasons. Listed at 5’11” 180 lbs. 26th-rounder out of HS in 2012.
• Jameson Fisher, SE Louisiana C--a pretty decent sophomore season (.389/.481/.469) had him considered a top 5 round possibility. But a torn labrum put the kibosh on his 2015 season and likely means a return ticket to the Lions in 2016. Listed at 6’2” 200 lbs. 24th-rounder out of HS in 2012.

Others: Kolby Allard, San Clemente HS (CA) LHP (stress fracture--lower back); Kep Brown, Mt. Pleasant Wando HS (SC) OF (torn achilles); Brendon Davis, Lakewood HS (CA) 3B (fractured wrist)   

[astrosfan76]

I'm sure this will change multiple times before the draft, based on the nature of the beast, but (from Callis):

Following up on @rog61 ... My gut right now is @Dbacks take @LieutenantDans7 at No. 1 & @Astros take @ABREG_1 at No. 2. @MLBDraft

It could lead to a position change for Correa or Bregman down the road, with Bregman possibly going to the outfield.  But, I'd be okay with that pick.

[Reuben]

I'm sure this will change multiple times before the draft, based on the nature of the beast, but (from Callis):

It could lead to a position change for Correa or Bregman down the road, with Bregman possibly going to the outfield.  But, I'd be okay with that pick.

Kiley McDaniel had a new mock today (paste isn't working for some reason, or I'd paste the link). He has Swanson "80%" likely going #1 overall, with the Astros taking either Rodgers or possibly Bregman #2, and either Tucker or (if available) Bregman at #5.

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDaniel had a new mock today (paste isn't working for some reason, or I'd paste the link). He has Swanson "80%" likely going #1 overall, with the Astros taking either Rodgers or possibly Bregman #2, and either Tucker or (if available) Bregman at #5.

Link.

Some more of what McDaniel said:

Benintendi is a late riser that looks to be the choice behind Tucker, or if they want to save a little more money at this pick. Texas prep LF Trenton Clark has also been tied here, but he fits a little lower and college arms Tate, Fulmer and Jay have all been seen by Houston’s heavy hitters recently, but those seems like backup plans to Tucker and Bregman here.

Not the first time in the past several days I've seen the Astros linked (if you can call it that) to Tyler Jay but given the amount of helium he's had of late hardly surprising.

[toddthebod]

I want Swanson and Fulmer at 2 and 5.  Just sayin.

[Nate Colbert]

The 2nd in a series:

If Bloodlines Are Your Thing...

• Nick Shumpert, Highlands Ranch HS (CO) SS--listed at 6’0” 175 lbs. Son of Terry, cousin to Mookie Betts. Kentucky commit.
• Ke'Bryan Hayes, Tomball Concordia Lutheran 3B--listed at 6’2” 210 lbs. Son of Charlie. Tennessee commit.
• Tyler Nevin, Poway HS (CA) 3B--listed at 6’3” 200 lbs. Son of Phil. UCLA commit.
• Jose Vizcaino Jr, Santa Clara SS--had a nice spring and boosted his draft stock in the process. Final line was .335/.406/.588 and led the Broncos in deep flies with 9. 23 walks and 39 whiffs in 194 ABs. Just 10 of 17 in steals. Missed 5 games early in the season with a hand injury. 36th-rounder back in 2012 by the Dodgers (who his dad then and now works for).
• Mariano Rivera Jr, Iona RHP--like Viz Jr, his performance in 2015 has given him a bounce on the draft boards. K’d 113 in 85 innings while giving up 64 hits and 27 walks. Listed as a very slight 5’11” 155 lbs. Drafted in the 29th round by the Yankees in 2014 as a RS sophomore.
• Tate Matheny, Missouri State OF--enters NCAA tournament play batting .294/.419/.441 with 32 walks and 31 strikeouts in 211 ABs. Drafted out of HS by the Cardinals in the 23rd round in 2012. Mike’s son.
• Luke Wakamatsu, Keller HS INF--switch-hitter. Listed at 6’3” 185 lbs. Son of Don. Rice commit.
• Elih Marrero, Coral Gables HS (FLA) SS--switch-hitter. Listed at 5’10” 185 lbs. Son of Eli. Mississippi State commit.
• Cam Gibson, Michigan State OF--the junior hit .294/.378/.437 for the Spartans while stealing 17 of 21 bases. Listed at 6’2” 195 lbs. Drafted out of HS by the D-Backs in the 38th round in 2012. Son of Kirk.
• Kody Clemens, Houston Memorial HS INF--lefty hitter. Listed at 6’1” 170 lbs. Son of Roger. Longhorn commit.
• Scott Heineman, Oregon 1B/OF--hit at a .289/.373/.428 clip this spring with 19 walks and 28 strikeouts in 159 ABs. His season got off to a rough start after missing 12 games with a concussion. His 2014 season was washed out after undergoing shoulder surgery. Listed at 6’1” 215 lbs. Taken in the 19th round in 2014 as a draft-eligible sophomore. Brother of Astros AAA catcher Tyler.
• Hutton Moyer, Pepperdine 2B--the junior was hitting .280/.393/.543 going into regionals action and led the Waves with 13 home runs after hitting .306/.387/.444 as a sophomore. Lots of strikeouts though: 57 in 207 ABS this year. Listed at 6’1” 180 lbs. Son of Jamie.
• Tanner Donnels, Loyola Marymount 1B--senior who finished the season hitting .308/.401/.498. 31 strikeouts and 24 walks in 201 ABs. Listed at 6’2” 205 lbs. Son of Chris.
• Yomar Valentin, Carlos Beltran Baseball Academy HS (PR) SS--Auburn commit. Switch-hitter listed at 5’7” 155 lbs. Son of Jose.
• Giovanny Alfonzo, Tampa SS--senior who hit .359/.411/.598 for the Spartans with 17 strikeouts and 14 walks in 209 ABs. Listed at 5’11” 185 lbs. Nephew of Edgardo.
• J.C. Snyder, Angelo State INF/OF--senior who hit .344/.404/.552 for the Rams with 48 strikeouts and 18 walks in 221 ABs. Played at BYU prior to transferring to Angelo State. Listed at 6’2” 185 lbs. Taken in the 36th round of the 2013 draft. Son of Cory.

Others: Kyle Tucker, Daz Cameron

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

I can only assume that Hutton Moyer is already 30.

[Lefty]

I'm sure this will change multiple times before the draft, based on the nature of the beast, but (from Callis):

It could lead to a position change for Correa or Bregman down the road, with Bregman possibly going to the outfield.  But, I'd be okay with that pick.

Not bitching at you at all, but seriously what fucking language is this?

"Following up on @rog61 ... My gut right now is @Dbacks take @LieutenantDans7 at No. 1 & @Astros take @ABREG_1 at No. 2. @MLBDraft"

[Nate Colbert]

The 3rd in a series:

Re-Draft Possibilities

• Mitchell Traver, TCU RHP--a superb season for the RS sophomore, particularly given the hurdles he encountered his first two seasons as a Horned Frog. Entering NCAA tourney play, just 41 hits and 19 walks surrendered in 62 IP while K’ing 60. Pitched just ⅓ of an inning in 2013 and 2014 due to thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and TJS. The Sugar Land native is listed at 6’7” 245 lbs. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• C.J. Hinojosa, Longhorn SS--disappointing season for the ex-Klein Collins HSer. Although he put on a spurt towards the end (including 4 homers in a span of 3 games versus Baylor), overall his offense fell short at .244/.322/.410. While at the beginning of the year he was mentioned as perhaps going as high as the 4th round, that no longer seems to be in the cards. 26th round pick of the Astros in 2012.
• Joseph Shaw, DBU RHP--the Friday night starter for the Patriots whiffed 66 in 82 IP while allowing 74 hits and 23 walks. Listed at 6’5” 230 lbs. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• Daniel Pinero, Virginia SS--entering the NCAA tournament hitting .311/.415/.440. 34 BBs/33 Ks in 209 ABs. A big boy at the position at a listed 6’6” and has made 18 errors in 55 games (had just 9 miscues all of last season). Reached 44 times on walks and HBPs in 2014 as a freshman even though his overall numbers weren’t impressive (.261/.372/.286). The fact that he came in to a top-level program like the Cavaliers and started all 68 games as a freshman is notable to say the least. 20th round pick of the Astros in 2013 and a draft-eligible sophomore this season.
• Michael Foster, Northeastern INF/OF--cooled off considerably after a scorching start (he hit .420/.476/.614 over the first 23 games), finishing the year at .347/.432/.495 with 9 SBs in 11 attempts. 25 BB/26 K in 190 ABs. Played 2B, SS and CF for the Huskies this season. Listed at 6’0” 190 lbs. RS junior who was selected by the Astros in the 38th round last year after a .299/.369/.394 season.
• Hunter Virant, UCLA LHP--Limited action in 2013 and 2014 in part due to stress fracture in back. And this season he just could not get things together and was used sparingly out of the bullpen. Although the Bruins season is not yet over, he currently sits at 11 walks and 21 hits allowed in 21 IP with just 10 strikeouts. I’m guessing another year in Westwood is in the cards. 11th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• A.J. Murray, Georgia Tech C/1B/DH--has some pop but not likely to make enough consistent contact to make it worthwhile. Finished his senior season at .279/.366/.582 with 54 strikeouts versus 26 walks in 208 ABs. 48th round selection by the Astros in 2011 out of HS.
• Gandy Stubblefield, West Alabama--spent his freshman and sophomore seasons in Aggieland before transferring to the DII school. 62 hits and 29 hits allowed this spring with 71 whiffs in 84 IP. Tyler’s brother. 14th round selection by the Astros in 2011 out of HS.
• Mac Marshall, Chipola LHP--missed 6 weeks with a broken thumb and then was removed from his last start due to a “minor nerve issue”. So he ended up throwing just 30 innings for the Indians this spring, whiffing 44 and walking 13. Like Jake Nix, reportedly changed advisors in the wake of last year’s debacle (going from Jet Sports to ACES). Like the rest of the guys on this re-draft list, must provide written consent in advance of the draft to allow the Astros to take him again. Unlike Nix, no one has yet to report whether he intends to do so or not. 21st round selection of Astros in 2014.

[astrosfan76]

Not bitching at you at all, but seriously what fucking language is this?

"Following up on @rog61 ... My gut right now is @Dbacks take @LieutenantDans7 at No. 1 & @Astros take @ABREG_1 at No. 2. @MLBDraft"

His gut feeling is that those two go #1 and #2?

[Nate Colbert]

Fixed to show the correct round on Joseph Shaw:

Re-Draft Possibilities

• Mitchell Traver, TCU RHP--a superb season for the RS sophomore, particularly given the hurdles he encountered his first two seasons as a Horned Frog. Entering NCAA tourney play, just 41 hits and 19 walks surrendered in 62 IP while K’ing 60. Pitched just ⅓ of an inning in 2013 and 2014 due to thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and TJS. The Sugar Land native is listed at 6’7” 245 lbs. 39th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• C.J. Hinojosa, Longhorn SS--disappointing season for the ex-Klein Collins HSer. Although he put on a spurt towards the end (including 4 homers in a span of 3 games versus Baylor), overall his offense fell short at .244/.322/.410. While at the beginning of the year he was mentioned as perhaps going as high as the 4th round, that no longer seems to be in the cards. 26th round pick of the Astros in 2012.
• Joseph Shaw, DBU RHP--the Friday night starter for the Patriots whiffed 66 in 82 IP while allowing 74 hits and 23 walks. Listed at 6’5” 230 lbs. 40th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• Daniel Pinero, Virginia SS--entering the NCAA tournament hitting .311/.415/.440. 34 BBs/33 Ks in 209 ABs. A big boy at the position at a listed 6’6” and has made 18 errors in 55 games (had just 9 miscues all of last season). Reached 44 times on walks and HBPs in 2014 as a freshman even though his overall numbers weren’t impressive (.261/.372/.286). The fact that he came in to a top-level program like the Cavaliers and started all 68 games as a freshman is notable to say the least. 20th round pick of the Astros in 2013 and a draft-eligible sophomore this season.
• Michael Foster, Northeastern INF/OF--cooled off considerably after a scorching start (he hit .420/.476/.614 over the first 23 games), finishing the year at .347/.432/.495 with 9 SBs in 11 attempts. 25 BB/26 K in 190 ABs. Played 2B, SS and CF for the Huskies this season. Listed at 6’0” 190 lbs. RS junior who was selected by the Astros in the 38th round last year after a .299/.369/.394 season.
• Hunter Virant, UCLA LHP--Limited action in 2013 and 2014 in part due to stress fracture in back. And this season he just could not get things together and was used sparingly out of the bullpen. Although the Bruins season is not yet over, he currently sits at 11 walks and 21 hits allowed in 21 IP with just 10 strikeouts. I’m guessing another year in Westwood is in the cards. 11th round pick of Astros in 2012.
• A.J. Murray, Georgia Tech C/1B/DH--has some pop but not likely to make enough consistent contact to make it worthwhile. Finished his senior season at .279/.366/.582 with 54 strikeouts versus 26 walks in 208 ABs. 48th round selection by the Astros in 2011 out of HS.
• Gandy Stubblefield, West Alabama--spent his freshman and sophomore seasons in Aggieland before transferring to the DII school. 62 hits and 29 hits allowed this spring with 71 whiffs in 84 IP. Tyler’s brother. 14th round selection by the Astros in 2011 out of HS.
• Mac Marshall, Chipola LHP--missed 6 weeks with a broken thumb and then was removed from his last start due to a “minor nerve issue”. So he ended up throwing just 30 innings for the Indians this spring, whiffing 44 and walking 13. Like Jake Nix, reportedly changed advisors in the wake of last year’s debacle (going from Jet Sports to ACES). Like the rest of the guys on this re-draft list, must provide written consent in advance of the draft to allow the Astros to take him again. Unlike Nix, no one has yet to report whether he intends to do so or not. 21st round selection of Astros in 2014.

[Nate Colbert]

4th in a series:

Senior Slot Signs

• Tanner Rainey, West Alabama RHP--a two-way player at the DII school, he’s apparently being valued by scouts for his mound talents. Used as a reliever so his innings are relatively sparse. 29 K/14 BB in 21 IP with 12 hits allowed. Listed at 6’3” 235 lbs. Never drafted.
• Kyle Martin, South Carolina 1B--don’t really hear much about this guy but one of the more intriguing college power bats available in the draft. His overall numbers for the season were impressive enough--.350/.455/.635 in 57 games with 39 BB/27 K in 203 AB. But in tough SEC conference play the lefty hitter kicked it up a notch--.393/.504/.794 in 30 games with 24 Ws versus just 12 Ks in 107 ABs. Those numbers were arguably better than those put up by SEC Player of the Year Andrew Benintendi. Of course, given his position the bat is the only thing Martin brings to the table. But a power bat is a power bat and add to that some really good plate discipline and I think you have the best college senior hitter available. Listed at 6’1” 240 lbs. Unsigned 20th rounder from 2014.
• Zack Zehner, Cal Poly OF--a slow start to the season but came on strong to post .304/.356/.509 numbers. A red flag is some fairly high strikeout numbers--52 in 214 ABs. Listed at 6’4” 210 lbs. The 5th highest pick from 2014 to not sign (7th round, Blue Jays).
• Austin Byler, Nevada 1B--finished the year at .328/.507/.652 although certainly a geographic component to some of those numbers. Finished 2nd in the nation to Florida State OF DJ Stewart in both walks (54) AND strikeouts (57). Listed at 6’3” 225 lbs. The 6th highest pick from 2014 to not sign (9th round, Nationals).
• Benton Moss, North Carolina RHP--started out the year in a terrific manner with (34:4 K/W in his first 21.2 IP) but it was somewhat downhill from there. He missed several weeks with a forearm strain. And the numbers afterwards weren’t as good: 32:13 K/W in 45.1 IP. FB allegedly has topped out at 95. Listed at 6’2” 180 lbs. Unsigned 15th rounder from 2014.
• Josh Tobias, Florida 3B--apparently went back to switch-hitting this season and saw a huge spike from last season’s numbers of .305/.376/.448. This year he entered NCAA tourney play batting a more robust .373/.441/.565 with 18 walks and 28 strikeouts in 193 ABs. And there’s no significant dropoff when you look at his stats only against SEC foes: .357/.425/.551. Listed at 5’10” 205 lbs. 31st round pick in 2011 out of HS.
• Blake Allemand, Aggies INF--couldn’t have asked for a better season from the 5’10” Bourne native who headed into regionals hitting .352/.434/.526 with 29 walks and just 17 strikeouts in 213 ABs. The switch-hitter had just as good or better numbers in conference play, batting .362/.462/.514. 6 of 7 in SBs. Never drafted.
• David Berg, UCLA RHP--the Bruins sidearming closer entered regionals having struck out 56 and walked just 7 in 61.2 frames. Holds the NCAA record for career appearances and is within a few saves of the career saves record. Listed at 6’0” 195 lbs. Unsigned 17th rounder from 2014.
• Colin Welmon, LMU RHP--the Friday night starter for the Lions all four seasons he’s been on campus. Whiffed 96 in 94 innings this year while walking 28. Low 90s FB. Listed at 6’3” 195 lbs. Unsigned 34th rounder from 2014.
• Garrett Mundell, Fresno State RHP--started out the year as the Sunday starter for the Bulldogs before moving to the bullpen which is where pitched as a junior. Went from 38 K/24 BB in 46 IP in 2014 to 53 K/21 BB in 61 IP in 2015. Listed at 6’7” 235 lbs. Taken in the 18th round by the D-Backs in 2014.
• Jordan Ramsey, UNCW RHP--a reliever for the Seahawks who headed off to the NCAA tournament with a fabulous 60 Ks to 10 Ws in 45 IP and only 31 hits allowed. Listed at 6’4” 200 lbs. Taken in the 32nd round by the Yankees in 2014.
• Dylan Moore, UCF INF--went .333/.417/.542 for the year with 28 Ws and 35 Ks in 240 ABs. 14 of 16 in steals. After transferring in from juco, he put up .315/.391/.414 numbers in his junior season for the Knights. Listed at 6’0” 190 lbs. Never drafted.
• Connor Barron, Southern Miss OF--A 3rd rounder in 2011 (102nd overall pick) out of HS, the potential five tool player never really put things together at the plate in his first three seasons with the Golden Eagles. However, things might finally have clicked for him last summer playing in the Texas Collegiate League where he batted .344/.418/.519, had 34 stolen bases in 37 attempts and BA named him the top prospect in that league. The success continued into his senior season where he was blazing thru the early part of the schedule before leveling off. Final numbers: .295/.393/.463 with 29 walks and 39 strikeouts in 190 ABs. 13 out of 17 in steals.
• Preston Morrison, TCU RHP--will be interesting to see how this soft-tosser’s stuff plays at the next level. 71 Ks in 96 IP. Listed at 6’2” 185 lbs. Never drafted.
• John Clay Reeves, Rice C--has a .324/.424/.484 slash line entering the NCAA tournament with 24 Ws and 29 Ks in 188 ABs. Hit .317/.370/.439 as a junior after spending his freshman year at Arkansas (where he started 19 games at catcher) and then transferring to Navarro College for his sophomore season. Listed at 6’0” 200 lbs. Never drafted.
• Bobby Poyner, Florida LHP--the Gators reliever entered the NCAA tourney with 50 strikeouts and just 6 walks in 52 IP while giving up 45 hits. Listed at 6’2” 205 lbs. Never drafted.
• Garrett Kennedy, Miami C/1B--threw up impressive numbers of .372/.459/.531 in ACC-only play with 17 BBs/13 Ks in 113 ABs. Listed at 6’2” 210 lbs. Never drafted.
• Tommy Williams, UCF 3B--trailed off after a very hot start this spring but his 2015 numbers overall were still pretty good at .315/.403/.536. His OPS progression in his college career? .611 in 2013 to .819 in 2014 to this year’s .939 so it looks like he’s kinda getting the hang of things. On the other hand, his 60 strikeouts in 222 ABs this season suggests he may have problems making consistent contact at the next level. Listed at 6’2” 190 lbs. 20th rounder in 2011 out of HS.
• Matt Beaty, Belmont 1B/3B--the Astros took Jamie Ritchie out of Belmont last year in the 13th round so maybe they’re taking a close look at this kid. Like Ritchie, has tremendous plate discipline. He entered 2015 having walked 80 times vs. just 57 whiffs in 517 ABs in his college career. This year he drew 32 BBs and struck out only 17 times in 238 ABs to go along with his .382/.469/.668 slash line. The lefty hitter is listed at 6’1” 200 lbs. 48th rounder in 2011 out of HS.
• David Kerian, Illinois 1B--entering regionals play the switch-hitter had posted .366/.452/.644 numbers with 31 BBs and 25 Ks in 192 ABs. Listed at 6’3” 195 lbs. 42nd rounder in 2011 out of HS.
• Kade Scivicque, LSU C--entered regionals hitting .353/.393/.517 for the year with just 20 strikeouts in 207 ABs in 51 games. His numbers in SEC play were fairly solid as well: .352/.400/.456 in 29 games. After transferring in from juco, hit .304/.377/.467 in 2014. Adequate receiving skills but needs refining seems to be the judgement of the scouting community as to his work behind the plate. Never drafted.
• Logan Ratledge, NC State INF--blossomed this year after a relatively lackluster junior campaign where he hit just .274/.367/.375. This year, entering regionals play he had a .330/.433/.539 slash line with 31 Ws and 30 Ks in 215 ABs. 11-14 in SB attempts. Played 2B for the Wolfpack previously until being shifted to SS this season after Trea Turner was taken in last year’s draft. Listed at 5’10” 190 lbs. Never drafted.
• Kyle Friedrichs, Long Beach State RHP--on a night with a lot of scouts in the house due to Dillon Tate being the mound opponent, absolutely shut down the Gauchos   (9 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 0 W, 13 K) in one of the best pitching performances of the 2015 college season. In that game UCSB managed just 1 FB off him. Had a pretty amazing 109 strikeouts and just 12 walks in 100 IP this season. Was the Dirtbag closer in 2012 (and a darned-good one) before going under the knife (TJS) and missing all of 2013. Pitched just 26 innings in a recovery season in 2014. Listed at 6’1” 190 lbs. Never drafted.
• Kevin Kaczmarski, Evansville OF--absolutely punished MVC (and other) pitchers to the tune of a .465/.543/.746 slash line with 28 BBs and 23 Ks in 185 ABs. That batting average led all of D1 ball by a substantial margin. Swiped 13 bags in 17 attempts. Listed at 6’0” 190 lbs. Never drafted.
• Chris Keck, UCLA 3B--headed off to the NCAA tournament batting .306/.395/.505 with 30 walks and 26 strikeouts in 216 ABs. That’s a pretty amazing turnaround for a guy who had career numbers of .220/.313/.303 entering the season. Listed at 6’2” 190 lbs. The lefty hitter missed the final six weeks of the 2014 season with a blood clot in his arm. Never drafted.
• Collin Ferguson, Saint Mary’s 1B--lefty hitter swung at a .337/.463/.577 clip for the Gaels with 43 walks and 47 strikeouts in 208 ABs. Listed at 6’3” 215 lbs. 23rd round selection of Oakland in 2014.
• Ryan Krill, Michigan State 1B--also a lefty hitter who after a really poor junior season (just .234/.322/.356) decided to spend less time in the weight room and make some mechanical adjustments at the plate. It paid off big time this season as he exploded to put up .351/.439/.615 numbers with 27 walks and 30 strikeouts in 205 ABs. Listed at 6’4” 230 lbs. 40th round selection in 2011 out of HS.
• Sarkis Ohanian, Duke RHP--the Blue Devil reliever had a 62/11 strikeout to walk ratio in 45.2 innings. Listed at 6’0” 185 lbs. Never drafted.
• Ryan Halstead, Indiana RHP--the Hoosier closer missed most of 2014 after blowing out a knee but rebounded this year to rack up a 51/5 strikeout to walk ratio in 40 IP. Listed at 6’5” 220 lbs. 26th round pick in 2013.
• Tucker Tubbs, Memphis 1B--slugged .305/.393/.601 with 17 longballs (6th in nation). 26 BBs/27 Ks in 223 Abs. Listed at 6’4” 205 lbs. Never drafted.

Others: Jon Perrin, Oklahoma State RHP (33rd rounder, 2014); Ashton Perritt, Liberty (17th rounder, 2014); Parker French, Longhorns RHP (19th rounder, 2014); Michael Freeman, Oklahoma State LHP (never drafted); Sikes Orvis, Ole Miss 1B (19th rounder, 2011); James McMahon, Southern Miss RHP (never drafted); Mitchell Nau, Texas A&M C/DH (never drafted); Jackson Glines, Michigan OF (never drafted); Reid Roper, Illinois 2B (29th rounder, 2010); Luke Harrison, Indiana RHP (never drafted); Tyler Peitzmeier, CSF LHP (never drafted); Billy Strode, Florida State LHP (never drafted)

These senior slot signs will generally fall in rounds 6-10 although some will go earlier.

[jbm]

So, I'm trying to see as many of the top guys as possible.  Saw some ABs from Bregman last night. The only thing I gathered from limited viewing is that he seems marginal as a runner. I didn't slow the recording to watch any plays as a fielder, but it got me wondering, can he really be a quality shortstop?  If he has to move to second, or third (I have no knowledge of his arm), does his bat really project that well? 

What's the opinion of those here who have seen him.

[Mr. Happy]

So, I'm trying to see as many of the top guys as possible.  Saw some ABs from Bregman last night. The only thing I gathered from limited viewing is that he seems marginal as a runner. I didn't slow the recording to watch any plays as a fielder, but it got me wondering, can he really be a quality shortstop?  If he has to move to second, or third (I have no knowledge of his arm), does his bat really project that well? 

What's the opinion of those here who have seen him.

I have seen Bregman play qute a bit. I think that he'll change positions in the pros to 2B, but he's got the arm to play SS. I guess that I'm having trouble seeing him as a top 5 pick. His freshman year was huge. He started very slowly last season.

[Reuben]

It feels like the draft buzz is extremely fickle this year. Tate had 1/1 or 2 buzz for most of the spring, then had a few not-great outings and suddenly he's projected in the 6-10 range. Funkhouser has dropped like a stone. Swanson and Bregman have played well as their teams roll into the CWS, and they have both shot up boards. Fulmer was the hot name for a week, then had one bad game and he's back in the 7-10 range supposedly.

I just wonder if teams are really changing their feelings about top guys that quickly, or if it's a bi-product of all the draft writers needing to churn out new content every 5 minutes.

I guess what I'm getting at is, a few weeks ago many here would've been ecstatic if told that the Astros had a legit shot at drafting both Rodgers and Tate. Now it appears that they could, but may even pass on both.

[Reuben]

Tate, by the way, had a pretty good outing Saturday. Gave up 4 runs in 8 IP but only 6 H, 1 BB, and 11 punchouts. Haven't seen any reports on his velo.

[astrosfan76]

It feels like the draft buzz is extremely fickle this year. Tate had 1/1 or 2 buzz for most of the spring, then had a few not-great outings and suddenly he's projected in the 6-10 range. Funkhouser has dropped like a stone. Swanson and Bregman have played well as their teams roll into the CWS, and they have both shot up boards. Fulmer was the hot name for a week, then had one bad game and he's back in the 7-10 range supposedly.

I just wonder if teams are really changing their feelings about top guys that quickly, or if it's a bi-product of all the draft writers needing to churn out new content every 5 minutes.

I guess what I'm getting at is, a few weeks ago many here would've been ecstatic if told that the Astros had a legit shot at drafting both Rodgers and Tate. Now it appears that they could, but may even pass on both.

Yes.  The guys that are dropping had question marks before, but were performing well despite them, or were performing like there wasn't an issue, at all.  For instance, Tate was holding his velocity and performing at a high level most of the season, then saw his velocity drop and favors his off-speed stuff.  So, now the lack-of-track-record questions (especially as a starter) begin to creep back in to play.  The fluctuation also speaks to the lack of separation between players, with plenty of debate even within scouting departments.  So, depending on who a writer talks to, they could come away with multiple opinions of who a club likes.  It doesn't hurt, from their standpoint, but I don't think it's entirely their creation.

[pots]

My money is still on Rodgers.  There is no way any real information has floated out of the Astros camp.  It's not like they are just in a situation where they take who Arizona doesn't, they have the 5th pick as well.  So they really can't even float a we are looking at these 6 players list. 

And for that matter, Colorado and the Rangers have to be super mum on who they like.  Because if the Astros have 2 guys they really want and 1 is likely to fall to 5 then they'd draft the other in hopes to get both.

Especially if Arizona is mudding the waters trying to draft cheap at 1-1 to land a great pick at 2-1.  Now you are in a situation where Rodgers may truly be the BPA, but neither the Astros, Rockies or Rangers are going to say a word about him hoping he comes to them.  And the Twins and on wouldn't even be talking about Rodgers since he's unlikely to be there at 6.

[Nate Colbert]

Recapping regionals performances plus the usual miscellaneous:

Potential Top 5 Picks

• Dillon Tate, UCSB RHP--against San Diego State, as previously noted he struck out 11 and walked just 1 with 6 hits allowed in 8 IP. Was tossing 94-96 in 1st inning (topping out at 98) and still throwing mid-90s in the 7th. Finished 2015 with 111 K/28 BB in 103 IP and 66 hits allowed. Never drafted.
• Dansby Swanson, Vanderbilt SS--went 3-10 with 4 walks, a double, a SB and a longball as Vandy advances to the super regionals against Illinois. Currently .348/.443/.656 for the year (.310/.417/.560 against SEC foes). 15 for 17 in SBs. 42 walks vs 43 strikeouts in 247 ABs. 38th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Alex Bregman, LSU SS--hitless in 3 games but he did have 3 walks and 3 SBs (also thrown out once). Current slash line of .318/.414/.548 (.298/.399/.492 in 29 SEC games). Just 20 strikeouts in 239 ABs. 35 out of 45 in steals. LSU takes on ULL in super regionals. 29th round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Kyle Funkhouser, Louisville RHP--decent performance against Morehead State (7 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 1 W, 6 K). 99 K/43 W in 105 IP this season. The Cardinals move on to play Cal State Fullerton in super regionals. Never drafted.
• Carson Fulmer, Vanderbilt RHP--had his usual steady if not spectacular performance with Lipscomb the victim in this case: 7 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 3 W, 11 K. Whiffed 147 in 108 IP this year with 41 BBs. 15th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Walker Buehler, Vanderbilt RHP--put up 5/2/0/0/1/7 numbers in that 21-0 butt-kicking of Radford. 78 hits and 25 walks allowed in 79 IP this season with 81 strikeouts. Missed several starts early and on restricted pitch count in several others due to elbow soreness. 14th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Ian Happ, Cincinnati INF/OF--season over. Finished the year at .369/.492/.672. 49 walks and 49 strikeouts in 198 ABs. Just 12-20 in SBs. Possible 2B in pros but currently playing OF for the Bearcats. Never drafted.
• Tyler Jay, Illinois LHP--scouts wanted to see the Illini closer in an extended outing and they got it. Went 4 scoreless against Wright State, allowing just 1 hit and 1 walk while whiffing 5. 62 pitches/45 strikes. Currently has 70 Ks in 60 IP with just 7 walks and 30 hits surrendered as he and his team move on against the Dores next weekend. Never drafted.
• Andrew Benintendi, Arkansas OF--had a 4-11 weekend with 2 walks and a double as the Razorbacks advance to the super regionals against Missouri State. Currently at .390/.491/.723 with 18 homers. And a ridiculous .443/.527/.736 in 29 SEC games. 42 walks vs 30 strikeouts in 213 ABs. 22 out of 26 in SBs. Listed at 5’10” 180 lbs. The draft-eligible sophomore was a 31st round pick in 2013 out of HS. Does not turn 21 until July.

[Nate Colbert]

5th in a series:

Some Interesting 3rd thru 5th Round Possibilities

• Thomas Eshelman, CSF RHP--not a real hard thrower but has pinpoint command. Overall for the year, only 6 freakin’ walks in 123.1 innings. Whiffed 125. Just posted a terrific outing (9 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 0 W, 14 K) in the NCAA regionals against Arizona State. A 3rd round projection earlier in the year was reasonable but has been rapidly rising on draft boards of late and may well be gone by the time the Astros pick at #79. Listed at 6’3” 210 lbs. Never drafted.
• Kyle Cody, Kentucky RHP--was ranked as the #2 prospect by BA in the Cape Cod League (CCL) last summer with a FB that sat 95 and touched 98 and was considered a potential 1st-rounder coming into this spring. But boy did he have a up and down season for the Wildcats. Went from the expected Friday starter to the Sunday starter to the bullpen and back in the rotation at the tail end of the year. His last two starts were impressive--just one run allowed in 15 innings against Mizzou and Georgia with 13 Ks/2 BBs. Overall for the year he had a 4.91 ERA but the peripherals were much better with 63 strikeouts and 17 walks in 66 IP. Listed at 6’7” 245 lbs. 33rd-rounder out of HS in 2012.
• David Hill, San Diego RHP--perhaps the most consistent pitcher in college baseball this spring. 115 K/35 W in 100 IP with just 66 hits allowed. Some scouts have questioned his usage this spring, running up some high pitch counts on several occasions (including 147 pitches in one outing). Listed at 6’3” 205 lbs. 17th round pick of the Phillies out of HS in 2012.
• David Thompson, Miami 1B/LF--very nice blend of power and plate discipline. Currently hitting .339/.447/.678 (including 19 dongs) with 41 walks and 26 strikeouts in 230 at-bats. Some drop-off against ACC opponents but still an impressive .305/.388/.686 slash line. Surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome and the recovery therefrom resulted in a down year at the plate last year (no home runs) but he’s healthy now. He’s also had several surgeries on his right shoulder and consequently doesn’t have the greatest of throwing arms. Plays 3B for the Hurricanes but a 1B/LF in the pros. Listed at 6’2” 205 lbs. 38th rounder in 2012 out of HS.
• Taylor Ward, Fresno State C--this draft is really thin on catching and Ward is generally considered the best of the college bunch. Decent throwing arm and solid receiving skills. There are some questions about the bat although he did hit .304/.413/.486 this spring with 35 walks and 34 whiffs in 214 ABs. Listed at 5’11” 190 lbs. 31st round pick of the Rays out of HS in 2012.
• Kyle Holder, San Diego SS--nifty glove, the question is how the bat will hold up at the next level. His numbers, however, for the Toreros this season weren’t shabby at all: .348/.418/.482 with 19 walks and 19 strikeouts in 224 ABs. Listed at 6’1” 185 lbs. Never drafted.
• Harrison Bader, Florida OF--hit .337 as a sophomore so a pretty significant  decline in the BA this season offset by increased power (a combined 3 homers his first two years vs 14 longballs this year). Overall this spring he’s hitting .290/.393/.549 with 30 BBs/48 Ks in 223 ABs. A lot of that damage was done against non-conference foes, however, as he hit just .222/.313/.393 in SEC play. Has the ability to play CF. Listed at 6’0” 190 lbs. Never drafted.
• Christin Stewart, Tennessee OF--the slash line overall (.311/.443/.633) and in SEC play (.308/.429/.606) were both impressive. 28 walks and 38 strikeouts in 177 ABs. Not the most mobile guy and the best case scenario is LF. Listed at 6’0” 205 lbs. Never drafted.
• Ryan Burr, ASU RHP--the Sun Devils closer touches 97 on the FB but is as wild as the proverbial march hare. Whiffed 74 hitters in 46 frames but walked 25 (and yielded 44 hits) this year after walking 38 in 44 IP last year. Listed at 6’4” 215 lbs. 33rd round pick in 2012 out of HS.
• Josh Staumont, Azusa Pacific RHP--Wild Thing and his 100 mph fastball finished the year with 109 Ks in 68.2 IP. Of course with that came 54 walks, 12 wild pitches and 8 plunks. Listed at 6’0” 185 lbs. Never drafted.
• Jeff Degano, Indiana State LHP--a Canadian who spent two relatively undistinguished seasons at a juco before pitching 3 games in 2013 for the Sycamores and then missing the rest of the season and all of 2014 after TJS. So not an auspicious resume entering this spring. But a breakout year with 126 K/28 BB in 99 IP. Listed at 6’4” 200 lbs. Never drafted.
• Andrew Stevenson, LSU OF--brings speed and the ability to play CF to the table. The lefty swinger has posted .373/.425/.480 numbers thus far, including .368/.440/.453 in SEC play. 26 of 33 in steals. Listed at 6’0” 185 lbs. Never drafted.
• Brandon Koch, DBU RHP--mid 90s fastball and a great slider contributed to an outstanding season for the Patriots closer. Racked up 69 Ks in just 38 innings this season. However, he also walked 24. Listed at 6’0” 185 lbs. Never drafted.
• Rhett Wiseman, Vanderbilt OF--the lefty hitter has posted .310/.410/.557 numbers in 2015 including .279/.385/.566 against conference foes. Possible red flag is the high strikeout level--61 in 255 ABs. May have the arm to play RF. Listed at 6’1” 205 lbs. 25th round selection out of HS in 2012.
• Taylor Clarke, C of C RHP--eye-popping numbers with 143 K/14 W in 114 innings. Lower 90s FB with obvious exceptional command. Had TJS several years ago. Listed at 6’2” 180 lbs. Never drafted.
• Kal Simmons, Kennesaw State SS--The switch-hitter was ranked by BA as the 22nd best prospect in the CCL last summer. Known for his defensive abilities but deficient with the bat as suggested by the .269/.380/.443 line put up for the Owls this season. Listed at 6’0” 185 lbs. Never drafted.
• Brandon Lowe, Maryland 2B--lefty hitter and draft-eligible sophomore who had a sensational freshman season batting .348/.464/.464. Has again led the Terps to the super regionals this season, hitting .333/.438/.551 along the way. 36 walks vs 30 strikeouts in 243 ABs. Torn ACL caused him to miss the 2013 season. Listed at 5’10” 165 lbs. Does not turn 21 until July.  Never drafted.
• David Fletcher, LMU SS--a draft-eligible sophomore who had an outstanding freshman season (.329/.362/.374 with 17 steals in 21 attempts) for the Lions, starting and playing in all 56 games. He was batting .351/.438/.486 through the first half of this season but tailed off in the back half and ended up at .308/.385/.416 (better numbers than last season unless you want to fixate on the BA). Just 18 Ks in 221 ABs. 14 of 17 in SBs. Feeling of most is that he can stick at SS. Listed at 5’10” 175 lbs. Never drafted.
• Kevin Kramer, UCLA INF--the Bruins leadoff hitter had a very nice season increasing his draft stock in the process. Finished at .323/.423/.475 but like Fletcher slumped down the stretch after hitting .410/.512/.629 in the first half. 36 walks and 38 whiffs in 254 ABs. Just 7 SBs in 15 attempts. Likely utility guy at the next level. RS junior who missed all of the 2014 season after undergoing shoulder surgery. Listed at 6’1” 205 lbs. 25th round selection in 2011 draft out of HS.
• Paul DeJong, Illinois State 2B--pretty consistent the last two seasons, batting .349/.430/.596 in 2014 and .333/.427/.605 this season. Hammered 14 deep flies this year but also struck out 50 times. Had a big season in the Northwoods League last summer where he slammed 20 dongs. Has some positional flexibility having played SS, 3B, OF and C for the Redbirds along with 2B. Some thought he might move to catcher permanently in the pros but a history of knee injuries might not make that the best of ideas. Listed at 6’1” 195 lbs. Taken by the Pirates in the 38th round in 2014 as a draft-eligible sophomore.
• Grayson Long, Aggie RHP--the Houston area native doesn’t have a lot of oomph on the fastball but spots it well. Thus far has chalked up 104 Ks/38 BBs in 93 IP. Listed at 6’5” 215 lbs. 39th rounder in 2012 out of HS.
• Ben Johnson, Longhorn OF--a .383/.427/.600 first half morphed into a more subdued but still excellent .332/.393/.498 for the season. The former Westwood High QB drew 13 walks and 13 plunks while K’ing 39 times in 241 at-bats. Listed at 6’1” 185 lbs. 25th round selection in 2012 out of HS.
• Josh Sborz, Virginia--the Hoos closer enters the super regionals with a 0.93 WHIP and 50 Ks in 58 IP. Listed at 6’2” 225 lbs. Never drafted.
• Andrew Moore, Oregon State RHP--a shorter Thomas Eshelman with slightly lesser command. Still, an excellent 111 Ks/21 BBs in 122 innings. Listed at 6’0” 185 lbs. Never drafted.
• Edwin Rios, FIU 1B--the lefty swinger smoked 18 longballs (3rd in the nation) while hitting .314/.421/.592 with 39 BBs and 37 Ks. Had a tremendous freshman campaign for the Panthers at .332/.412/.548 before declining to .296/.341/.400 last year. Kissimmee area native. Listed at 6’3” 200 lbs. Never drafted.
• Alex Robinson, Maryland LHP--mid 90s velocity but difficulty harnessing it. Walked 20 in 27 IP while sitting down 32. Listed at 6’3” 220 lbs. Never drafted.
• Kevin Duchene, Illinois LHP--soft tossing southpaw who heads into the super regionals with 86 Ks/15 BBs in 98 IP with 82 hits surrendered. Listed at 6’2” 205 lbs. Never drafted.
• Jack Wynkoop, South Carolina LHP--profiles similar to Duchene. A very fine 86 whiffs and 14 walks in 105 innings and a not so fine 121 hits allowed. Listed at 6’5” 210 lbs. Never drafted.
• Justin Jacome, UCSB LHP--named the 25th-best prospect in the CCL this past summer by Baseball America, the lanky Gauchos hurler struck out 96 in 117 frames with a 1.16 WHIP. Listed at 6’6” 230 lbs. Never drafted.
• Garrett Cleavinger, Oregon LHP--the Ducks closer whiffed 66 in 40 IP this spring after striking out 29 in 13 IP in the CCL last summer. Listed at 6’0” 220 lbs. Never drafted.
• Carson Cross, UConn RHP--108 Ks/25 BBs in 106 IP this year with 80 hits surrendered. Missed all of 2014 due to shoulder surgery. Listed at 6’6” 205 lbs. 24th-rounder in 2013 as a draft-eligible sophomore.
• Gabe Klobosits, Galveston CC RHP--the former Katy Pope John XXIII HSer struck out 82 while walking 22 in 77 IP this season for the Whitecaps. The sophomore is an Auburn commit. 25th round pick by the Red Sox in 2014 after his freshman season.
• Isiah Gilliam, Chipola 1B/OF--finished the year at .362/.421/.548 with 17 walks and 33 whiffs in 188 ABs. Listed at 6’3” 215 lbs. Teammate of Mac Marshall in both HS (Parkview in Lilburn, GA) and now at Chipola. Unsigned 23rd rounder from 2014 out of HS.
• Justin Ellison, Western Oklahoma State College OF--evidently when Jim Stevenson says he likes a guy, Mike Elias’ ears perk up. Stevenson is the area scout for Arkansas, Kansas, North Texas and Oklahoma. He is of course the guy who recommended/signed Dallas Keuchel (prior to 2007 he was with the Brewers and recommended/signed Yovani Gallardo). Players from Oklahoma and Kansas jucos seem especially to be in his sights. The Astros drafted seven players in 2014 alone from those schools including two from Western Oklahoma (Tony Nunez in the 18th round and Josh James in the 34th round). And the Western Oklahoma connection doesn’t stop there--former Astros minor leaguers Ruben Sosa (2011 23rd-rounder), Jamaine Cotton (2010 15th-rounder) and Jose Carlos Thompson (2011 NDFA) all played for the Pioneers. Unfortunately, the Astros never drafted the most famous Western Oklahoma alum--Andrelton Simmons. So it certainly wouldn’t be a surprise to see them draw from that well again with the lefty-hitting Ellison. Listed at 6’2” 170 lbs, the Columbus, GA native hit .426/.529/.863 this spring as a sophomore with 43 Ws versus 30 Ks in 197 ABs. 21 out of 27 in steals. Never drafted.
• Garrett Benge, Cowley County CC 3B--a Kansas juco possibility. A freshman who put up absurd numbers this year: .502/.601/.946 with 19 HRs and 97 RBIs in 52 games. 51 BB/13 K in 205 ABs. Even stole 15 bags in 19 attempts. Listed at 6’0” 205. The Yukon, OK native is an Oklahoma State commit. Never drafted.
• Willie Calhoun, Yavapai JC INF/OF--Yavapai actually has quite a history of producing big league players. Notable past Roughrider players include Billy Hatcher, Charlie Kerfeld, Curt Schilling and Bob Milacki as well as current MLBers Kole Calhoun, Ken Giles, Kyle Blanks and Kirby Yates. Calhoun led his team to the JUCO World Series this season by setting a number of offensive records for the Roughriders while hitting .441/.523/.973 with 31 longballs (note the geography certainly lends a hand to those numbers). Vertically-challenged (just 5’8”) and perhaps defensively-challenged as well. Attended U of Arizona as a freshman before moving on to Yavapai to apparently avoid an 18-game suspension. His numbers while with the Wildcats (.247/.345/.301) weren’t bad for a first year player but certainly gave no hint of the power to come. The plate discipline was there with the Wildcats (19 BB/11 K in 146 AB) and this year at Yavapai (34 BB/11 K in 222 AB) was phenomenal. Calhoun (along with fellow Roughrider Luke Doyle) have both signed to transfer to Kansas State unless some MLB team drafts him and puts enough money in his pocket to do otherwise. And he has turned down that money once before--he was taken in the 17th round by the Rays out of HS in 2013.
• Austin Allen, Florida Tech C--hit .421/.473/.728 for the DII Panthers with 23 walks and 19 strikeouts in 195 ABs. Apparently has a lot of work to do to stay behind the dish so a move to 1B wouldn’t be unexpected. Listed at 6’4” 225 lbs. Never drafted.
• Justin Garcia, Nova Southeastern OF--the last time the Astros took a Sharks outfielder didn’t work out so bad (J.D. Martinez) so how about another? Garcia hit .385/.478/.906 this year which was his first at the DII school. Those totals included 26 homers, 5 of which were hit in one day during a doubleheader. Took a meandering path to Nova, not playing baseball his first year out of high school before playing the next year at an Illinois juco and the subsequent one at a Florida juco. The lefty swinger is listed at 6’3” and 235 lbs. 25 Ws and 35 Ks in 192 ABs. 9 out of 10 in steals. Never drafted.

Note: The 3rd through 5th round projection should be taken with a massive heaping of salt. Undoubtedly some of these guys will fall into later rounds.

[astrosfan76]

My money is still on Rodgers.  There is no way any real information has floated out of the Astros camp.  It's not like they are just in a situation where they take who Arizona doesn't, they have the 5th pick as well.  So they really can't even float a we are looking at these 6 players list. 

And for that matter, Colorado and the Rangers have to be super mum on who they like.  Because if the Astros have 2 guys they really want and 1 is likely to fall to 5 then they'd draft the other in hopes to get both.

Especially if Arizona is mudding the waters trying to draft cheap at 1-1 to land a great pick at 2-1.  Now you are in a situation where Rodgers may truly be the BPA, but neither the Astros, Rockies or Rangers are going to say a word about him hoping he comes to them.  And the Twins and on wouldn't even be talking about Rodgers since he's unlikely to be there at 6.

It doesn't have to be a press release saying who they are looking at, but writers do get a sense of who some teams are considering.  Two years ago, though they ultimately selected Appel, it came out before the draft that they were strongly considering Moran at 1/1  That was despite many pundits having him as the ~5th-7th best player in the draft; those rumblings have been reinforced since then.  So, the speculation could be from talking to scouts (that team's or another's), seeing the level of a team's presence at the player's games, etc.  Again, that doesn't mean that they get a definite "we're taking this guy" from a team's GM or Scouting Director, but they may get enough from various sources to make "educated" guesses.  Doesn't mean they're ultimately right, though.

As for this draft class, ultimately, I would still be surprised if Rodgers made it to the Astros second pick.  He doesn't have the ceiling of some recent prep shortstops and he has some holes in his game, but he's good enough in this class.  He didn't have a "great" spring, but didn't have a bad one, and he just seems like a guy who goes to a team's tryout and wows everyone.     

[MusicMan]

As for this draft class, ultimately, I would still be surprised if Rodgers made it to the Astros second pick. 
   

I'll quite happily take Swanson as the 2nd pick.

[Nate Colbert]

I'll quite happily take Swanson as the 2nd pick.

Ditto.

[Mr. Happy]

I'll quite happily take Swanson as the 2nd pick.

+1

[juliogotay]

+1

I saw a play he made in the hole in the CWS and the throw he made to get the hitter. Amazing.

[Reuben]

I'll quite happily take Swanson as the 2nd pick.

I think '76 meant Rodgers is unlikely to make it to the Astros' 2nd pick, ie. 5th overall. Based on all the draft gossip it sounds like the only way the Dbacks don't take Swanson is if they cut a deal with Jay or something weird like that.

It also sounds like the Rocks are a sure bet to take Rodgers 3rd overall if available.

[astrosfan76]

I think '76 meant Rodgers is unlikely to make it to the Astros' 2nd pick, ie. 5th overall. Based on all the draft gossip it sounds like the only way the Dbacks don't take Swanson is if they cut a deal with Jay or something weird like that.

It also sounds like the Rocks are a sure bet to take Rodgers 3rd overall if available.

Yep, our 2nd pick/#5. 

[Reuben]

Man, this is weird. Law has his draft prospect rankings up at espn, with Rodgers #1 - and AZ SS Kevin Newman 2nd. Haven't seen him talked about as an elite talent, at all. Both BA and MLB.com have him at #29, citing lack of power, speed, and fringy SS defense.

On the other hand, if you believe he's going to hit like Jose Altuve in the majors, maybe he is the 2nd-best player.

[pots]

I'll quite happily take Swanson as the 2nd pick.

Certain Swanson has Beltran'd his way to the top.

[pots]

It doesn't have to be a press release saying who they are looking at, but writers do get a sense of who some teams are considering.

I'd bet money that at least the Rockies and Rangers have extra scouted folks that they are less interested this year.   The Astros having the 2nd and 5th pick really muddies the situation.  Let's say the DBacks take Swanson and the Astros are pretty much in a toss up between Rodgers, Tate and Fulmer.  Worse case scenario they draft one and the Rockies and Rangers take the other 2.  But let's say the Rangers are just plain stupid and make it obvious they want either Tate and if not then Jay.  Well then you take Tate knowing you will get one of Rodgers or Fulmer with the 5th pick.

[Mike S.]

Man, this is weird. Law has his draft prospect rankings up at espn, with Rodgers #1 - and AZ SS Kevin Newman 2nd. Haven't seen him talked about as an elite talent, at all. Both BA and MLB.com have him at #29, citing lack of power, speed, and fringy SS defense.

On the other hand, if you believe he's going to hit like Jose Altuve in the majors, maybe he is the 2nd-best player.

He is the only player to ever win the Cape Cod League batting title twice and earlier this year when he was hitting well over .400, Newman was talked about as going in the first ten picks (apologies, can't remember who specifically off the top of my head).  Defensively, I agree that he's probably adequate at SS.  But, from what I've read he has great baseball IQ (for lack of a better phrase) and should be more than capable playing 2B as a professional.

[Nate Colbert]

Man, this is weird. Law has his draft prospect rankings up at espn, with Rodgers #1 - and AZ SS Kevin Newman 2nd. Haven't seen him talked about as an elite talent...

This is not the first time Law has Newman ranked that high and we've talked about it before on this thread--see reply #316 above.

[Reuben]

This is not the first time Law has Newman ranked that high and we've talked about it before on this thread--see reply #316 above.

Oh yeah, thanks for the memory jog. I'd be curious to see him compare Newman to Swanson and Bregman. All he says in the ranking (the free content ends after the Newman/#2 entry) is:

Newman is also a surefire shortstop with tremendous feel to hit; he's the second-toughest college hitter in the draft class to strike out, just a shade behind Donnie Dewees (No. 73), who did it against weaker competition. Newman is a plus runner with the hand strength to have power, but he'll need to narrow his stance to get to the 10-12 home run range in pro ball.

here's part of BA's scouting report:

...combination of hitting ability and middle-of-the-diamond profile could put him in the first 10 selections. Newman is a pure hitter who controls the strike zone, walking more than he strikes out, but doesn't yet hit for a lot of power. Scouts are convinced the bat will play in the pro game, primarily because his quick hands work so well that he's able to start the hands so far forward. He may add more gap power as he matures but his college track record is that of a singles hitter, with two career homers (one Cape, one with Arizona). He struggled in Pacific-12 Conference play when he was pitched hard inside, batting just .279/.328/.378 heading into the final two weeks of conference play. Scouts are mixed on his shortstop defense and even arm strength, with some grading it average and others above-average. He's not flashy but has good instincts that maximize his arm, range and footwork. He also maximizes his average to above-average speed, and Newman consistently runs and plays hard. He's earned comparisons from players from Adam Kennedy for those who see him moving to second to Chris Gomez and, on the high end, Alan Trammell.

Geez, that's quite a range. I'm guessing Law is more in the Trammell camp.

[Mike S.]

Hi-Corbett Field, the University of Arizona's home field, is where college home runs go to die.

(ETA: Hi-Corbett was also the home field of Houston's former AAA affiliate, the Tucson Toros, when I was growing up; still remember when the Toros won their first PCL championship in 1991)

[juliogotay]

Hi-Corbett Field, the University of Arizona's home field, is where college home runs go to die.

(ETA: Hi-Corbett was also the home field of Houston's former AAA affiliate, the Tucson Toros, when I was growing up; still remember when the Toros won their first PCL championship in 1991)

do you remember the better players from that Toros club?

[Mike S.]

Kenny Lofton is the name I most remember because he was a star basketball player at the UofA when I was in grade school.  I also remember Eric Anthony and Gerald Young pretty well, but thanks to a quick Baseball Reference search I had forgotten just how many other prominent names were a part of that team:

Curt Schilling
Calvin Schiraldi
Andujar Cedeno
Tony Eusebio
Scott Servais
Jeff Juden
Mark McLemore

Wow.  The '91 Toros were even better than I remember.

[Nate Colbert]

One of the best hitters I remember from that era Tucson club was Jose Tolentino. Classic AAAA guy who got some brief time in the bigs and in the NPB as well.

And a former Longhorn too.

[juliogotay]

Kenny Lofton is the name I most remember because he was a star basketball player at the UofA when I was in grade school.  I also remember Eric Anthony and Gerald Young pretty well, but thanks to a quick Baseball Reference search I had forgotten just how many other prominent names were a part of that team:

Curt Schilling
Calvin Schiraldi
Andujar Cedeno
Tony Eusebio
Scott Servais
Jeff Juden
Mark McLemore

Wow.  The '91 Toros were even better than I remember.

Are you sure about Schilling and Schiraldi? I thought Schilling went directly to the big club when acquired from Baltimore and I don't remember Schiraldi ever being in Astros organization.

[Nate Colbert]

Are you sure about Schilling and Schiraldi? I thought Schilling went directly to the big club when acquired from Baltimore and I don't remember Schiraldi ever being in Astros organization.

The '91 Toros.

[juliogotay]

The '91 Toros.

There were a lot of guys that played in the majors on that team. Several 1st round picks including pitchers Ryan Bowen, Jeff Juden, Brian Williams and Schiraldi.

[Nate Colbert]

6th in a series:

Some Interesting Names Possibly Available at #37 & #46

• DJ Stewart, FSU OF--aka “Squat God of Walks”. Not very original though it is accurate as to his batting stance and ability to get on base. As the Noles face off against in-state rival Gators this weekend, currently hitting .322/.509/.580 with 69 walks and 45 whiffs. Those BBs lead the nation by a considerable margin. The lefty hitter also had no problems against ACC foes as he swatted .324/.493/.529 in 30 conference games. Looks like a fullback and was in his prep days. Listed at 6’0” 230 lbs. 28th rounder of the Yankees in 2012 out of HS.
• Cody Ponce, Cal Poly Pomona RHP--top-rated DII guy who BA ranked as the 3rd best talent in the Cape Cod League last summer where he posted 32 K/11 W in 35 IP. For CPP this spring, he registered 67 Ks vs 14 Ws in 62 innings. Missed three starts early this season with shoulder fatigue and was on restricted pitch count in several others. Was back up to the 90+ pitch range last month and even threw a 122 pitch game on May 15. Whether or not that was a good thing remains to be seen. Listed at 6’5” 235 lbs. Never drafted.
• Alex Young, TCU LHP--the southpaw operated primarily out of the bullpen his first two years before moving into the rotation this season and has been outstanding. Whiffed 81 and walked just 19 in 83 innings as TCU enters super regionals play. Listed at 6’3’ 190 lbs. 32nd round pick of the Rangers out of HS in 2012.
• Riley Ferrell, TCU RHP--the Horned Frogs closer and former A&M Consolidated HSer with the mid to high 90s FB has struck out 45 in 28 IP this year while walking 18 and allowing 10 hits. Was even better as a sophomore when he had a 70/14 strikeout to walk ratio in 45 innings. Listed at 6’1” 200 lbs. Never drafted.
• Donnie Dewees, North Florida OF--lefty hitter first announced his presence in the Cape last summer where he hit .340/.410/.473 in 41 games. That was a prelude to this spring when Dewees exploded for a .422/.483/.749 season for the Ospreys with 18 deep flies and just 16 strikeouts versus 30 walks in 251 ABs. 23 of 26 in SBs. Might be able to play CF. Broke his right wrist in 2014 which kept him out for most of his sophomore season. Listed at 6’0” 180 lbs. Never drafted.
• Richie Martin, Florida SS--enters the weekend series with the Noles batting .291/404/.415 with 33 walks and 33 strikeouts in 234 at-bats. Those numbers fall to .276/.360/.397 in SEC games. 20 for 27 in SBs. Doesn’t turn 21 until December. Listed at 6’0” 190 lbs. 38th round pick by the Marlins in 2012 out of HS.
• Scott Kingery, Arizona 2B--aggressive hitter who put up .392/.423/.561 numbers. Drew only 9 walks but also struck out just 18 times in 237 ABs. Just 11 out of 17 in SBs. Listed at 5’10” 180 lbs. Never drafted.
• Mikey White, Alabama SS--finished at .339/.444/.537 with 31 Ws and 47 Ks in 218 ABs over 60 games. In 30 SEC games, he hit .319/.418/.471. 8 for 9 in swipes. Opinions mixed on his long-term position but may have to slide over to 2B. Listed at 6’1” 200 lbs. 34th round pick by the Mets in 2012 out of HS.
• Andrew Suarez, Miami LHP--entered super regionals having given up 73 hits and 18 walks in 74 frames while whiffing 70. Missed several starts early with a strained oblique and was on a limited pitch count in at least three other starts. Also had a torn labrum back in 2012 that caused him to miss almost his entire freshman year. The 2nd highest pick from 2014 to not sign (57th overall, Nationals). He was a draft-eligible sophomore that year.
• Blake Trahan, Louisiana Lafayette SS--currently hitting .324/.435/.418 as the Ragin’ Cajuns prepare to play LSU in the super regionals. As the numbers would indicate, not much sting in the bat although decent plate discipline with 38 walks and 30 strikeouts in 244 ABs. Like Mikey White, mixed opinions on his defense with 2B of course the fallback option. Listed at 5’9” 180 lbs. Never drafted.

Other possibilities (covered in previous lists):

• Ke'Bryan Hayes
• Chris Shaw
• Joe McCarthy
• Gio Brusa*
• Mitchell Traver*

*Brusa and Traver might be more likely 3rd-5th round candidates

[moriartp]

DJ Stewart, FSU OF--aka “Squat God of Walks”. Not very original though it is accurate as to his batting stance and ability to get on base. As the Noles face off against in-state rival Gators this weekend, currently hitting .322/.509/.580 with 69 walks and 45 whiffs. Those BBs lead the nation by a considerable margin. The lefty hitter also had no problems against ACC foes as he swatted .324/.493/.529 in 30 conference games. Looks like a fullback and was in his prep days. Listed at 6’0” 230 lbs. 28th rounder of the Yankees in 2012 out of HS.

Sounds good to me. Take him!

[NeilT]

Will there be a 2016 draft thread?

[jbm]

You anticipating the apocalypse now that the good guys are in first?

[NeilT]

Hadn't thought of it quite that way, I was just thinking that a 29th draft pick would be less interesting.

[jbm]

29th?  Pessimist. 

To your original point though, you are most likely correct: not many people will care about the draft when the club is picking late. 

[Nate Colbert]

See this post in the Road to Omaha thread for super regionals matchups beginning tomorrow and draft prospects to watch for on each team.

[jbm]

Dude, you freakin awesome!  That's exactly what I need.

[Nate Colbert]

Dude, you freakin awesome!  That's exactly what I need.

I saw your earlier comment. I thought you'd like that.

[Reuben]

I'm stating the blatantly obvious when I say that you've repeatedly and consistently posted high-quality, in-depth stuff on this draft. I wish it could all be incorporated into the front-page content, because it's a huge credit to what this site has to offer. Thanks again.

[Nate Colbert]

I'm stating the blatantly obvious when I say that you've repeatedly and consistently posted high-quality, in-depth stuff on this draft. I wish it could all be incorporated into the front-page content, because it's a huge credit to what this site has to offer. Thanks again.

Thanks, Reuben.

[Reuben]

29th?  Pessimist. 

To your original point though, you are most likely correct: not many people will care about the draft when the club is picking late.

Oh, we'll care, we just won't be quite so obsessed.

Plenty of talent still to be found in the bottom half of the first round and beyond.

[MusicMan]

Oh, we'll care, we just won't be quite so obsessed.

Plenty of talent still to be found in the bottom half of the first round and beyond.

Mike Trout agrees


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Nate Colbert]

Re-Draft Possibilities

• Mac Marshall, Chipola LHP--missed 6 weeks with a broken thumb and then was removed from his last start due to a “minor nerve issue”. So he ended up throwing just 30 innings for the Indians this spring, whiffing 44 and walking 13. Like Jake Nix, reportedly changed advisors in the wake of last year’s debacle (going from Jet Sports to ACES). Like the rest of the guys on this re-draft list, must provide written consent in advance of the draft to allow the Astros to take him again. Unlike Nix, no one has yet to report whether he intends to do so or not. 21st round selection of Astros in 2014.

Marshall responded via twitter today that he did sign the consent so that he can in fact be re-drafted by the Astros.

[astrosfan76]

Jim Callis ‏@jimcallisMLB 29m29 minutes ago

I'll have a mock @MLBDraft up at @MLBPipeline today. I present an interesting @Astros scenario where they could get Bregman, Fulmer, Cameron

I could live with that.  I'm guessing the thought process with Cameron is that his price tag may be scaring some teams and the Astros, obviously, have the most money.  Law's most recent draft had him slipping out of the first round for that reason (price tag):

One player I don't currently have going in the first round is Daz Cameron, which is not in any way a statement on his ability or the interest level in him. I believe there's concern about what it would cost to sign him, and that some teams that would otherwise love to take him -- I doubt he'd get out of the top 10 -- are vacillating. That probably won't be the case by Monday morning, but I'm not going to just stick him with a team for the sake of putting him somewhere on the mock. Stay tuned for Monday's update.

That would be a tremendous start to the draft, if it were to happen.

http://insider.espn.go.com/mlb/draft/mock/?season=2015&version=3&source=Keith-Law-Mock-Draft

[Reuben]

That would be pretty nice, and it's the logical goal in a "muddled-top" class like this, you'd think. Shoot, I bet they could still afford Cameron even with Rodgers taking only a slight discount at 1-2; add Fulmer or Bregman at a discount at 1-5 plus a couple cheapo Senior signs in the Top 10 rounds and you've probably got an extra $3-4 mil to add on to the 1-37 slot for Cameron.

But who knows, maybe they like Bregman better than Rodgers anyway. If he's really a SS-playing 2nd coming of Pedroia, I'd take that as the 2nd overall pick.

[astrosfan76]

Here's Callis' explanation:

Heading into the final weekend before the Draft starts, the biggest wild card -- at least among fully healthy players -- is Daz Cameron. Several teams have been told that the Eagle's Landing Christian Academy (McDonough, Ga.) outfielder has a price tag of $5 million, and it's unclear whether that's a firm number or who might pay it...

If the Astros believe Cameron might fall dramatically, they could gamble and potentially wind up with three of the first six players on MLBPipeline.com's Draft Top 200. They could take Louisiana State shortstop Alex Bregman at No. 2, grab a college pitcher such as Vanderbilt right-hander Carson Fulmer at No. 5 and land Cameron at No. 37. Houston could spend $15 million on those three players and more than $3 million in the second through 10th rounds without exceeding its pool by more than 5 percent and triggering the loss of a future first-round choice.

For the record, Rounds 2-10 carry a slot value of $4,011,800 and the team's total pool is $17,289,200.  5% of the pool comes out to $864,460, giving them $18,153,660 before they run over.  Giving $15M to the first three picks and going slot the rest of the way would put them at $19,011,800, $858,140 over their maximum.  That is a lot to trim, but not impossible.

For the record, he has the club taking Bregman at #2 and Tucker at #5 (Cameron goes #4 to the Rangers).

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/128740596/three-shortstops-land-atop-latest-mock-draft

[Reuben]

John Manuel at BA has his new mock up, with the following 1-5:

Stephenson (Fulmer, Swanson others in mix)
Swanson (Tate)
Jay (Rodgers)
Rodgers (Bregman, if Rodgers is gone)
Cameron (Bregman)

[Nate Colbert]

John Manuel at BA has his new mock up, with the following 1-5:

Stephenson (Fulmer, Swanson others in mix)
Swanson (Tate)
Jay (Rodgers)
Rodgers (Bregman, if Rodgers is gone)
Cameron (Bregman)

Link

[Nate Colbert]

Kiley McDaniel/FG has Bregman at #2 and Tucker at #5 for the Astros in his latest mock with these comments:

I’m still 50/50 split on this one. The buzz is that the Astros want two bats, one prep and one college, so this pick is seen as Rodgers and then Benintendi or Bregman and then Tucker. I don’t think they’ve decided yet, but if I had to pick which pair is most likely, I’d go Bregman/Tucker, but I still think Rodgers has a better chance of going here than people are giving him credit for.

I think Tucker will be the pick here, but Benintendi is still possible, especially to save a few dollars for a later pick and especially if they take Rodgers at #2.

So piggybacking what McDaniel has to say here with the Callis comments above quoted by '76, I think a Rodgers/Benintendi/Cameron at 2/5/37 would be very appealing. Of course I would find a Swanson/Benintendi/Cameron even more appealing but I still think it hard to believe that Arizona will pass on Swanson at #1.

[jbm]

Now that I am focusing on who I can see this late in the game, the Arky outfielder seems more intriguing than what I have seen or read on others in the mix.

I've only seen his home run yesterday, and is was certainly impressive, but in a class purported to be weak, it's hard for me to imagine that with two picks, the Astros wouldn't take a shot on him, unless he is gone of course.  I mean, he seems to offer what you want with a high pick, which is something that seems is lacking with many names mentioned: a package of athleticism, speed, power, contact ability and most importantly, the impression that he is still blossoming. 

[Fynn]

Watching the Illinois/Vanderbilt super regional game tonight-hoping to see Tyler Jay face Swanson.  Several people are calling  Jay a left handed version of Billy Wagner. 

Personally I would be happy if we picked Jay for the second pick.  Maybe he could be an elite closer, or could be turned into a starter.

[Reuben]

Watching the Illinois/Vanderbilt super regional game tonight-hoping to see Tyler Jay face Swanson.  Several people are calling  Jay a left handed version of Billy Wagner. 

Personally I would be happy if we picked Jay for the second pick.  Maybe he could be an elite closer, or could be turned into a starter.

I think a team would be happy to "maybe" get an elite closer towards the end of the first round. To me, you want to aim higher with the 2nd or 5th overall pick - either an All-Star everyday player, or a #1/2 starter.

[Fynn]

I think a team would be happy to "maybe" get an elite closer towards the end of the first round. To me, you want to aim higher with the 2nd or 5th overall pick - either an All-Star everyday player, or a #1/2 starter.

FWIW, John Manuel at BA thinks the Rockies will take Jay as the third pick...maybe they hope to convert him to a starter.  KLaw said that keeping Jay in the bullpen was the single stupidest managerial move he had ever seen. 

[Nate Colbert]

Several people are calling  Jay a left handed version of Billy Wagner. 

A lefty version of Wags??? Do the same folks talk in the same breath about southpaw versions of Koufax?

[Fynn]

A lefty version of Wags??? Do the same folks talk in the same breath about southpaw versions of Koufax?

Good catch...I read this from a cubs  article about Jay.  I seriously doubt they knew about Wagner being a natural right hander.  An incredible feat to change to southpaw with such dominance.

[Reuben]

FWIW, John Manuel at BA thinks the Rockies will take Jay as the third pick...maybe they hope to convert him to a starter.  KLaw said that keeping Jay in the bullpen was the single stupidest managerial move he had ever seen.

Yes, the "buzz" on Jay is that teams think he can start. I know the Rockies love him, but I still don't see how you take him that high unless your scouts are convinced that not only can he start, but he'll probably still dominate as a starter. Even then, it just seems too risky that high up, when you've got plenty of talented hitters to choose from, as well as Tate and Fulmer, the guys who actually did successfully convert from closer to dominant starter.

[Reuben]

I haven't seen this noted elsewhere: Heyman has a Draft column where he notes that Casey Close is the advisor for Swanson, Rodgers, and Tucker, among others. Hmmm...

[Nate Colbert]

Yes, the "buzz" on Jay is that teams think he can start. I know the Rockies love him, but I still don't see how you take him that high unless your scouts are convinced that not only can he start, but he'll probably still dominate as a starter.

Jay has not been used as your typical "one inning and out" closer this year. On 8 different occasions, he's gone 3 innings or more including outings of 4 innings (3 times), 5 innings and 6 innings. And he dominated in 7 out of 8 of those appearances. So there is some history there to believe he may successfully transition in the pros.

BTW, given that he wasn't used in yesterday's game (and hasn't been used since Monday) there is the possibility that he'll be used tonight for multiple innings in the win or go home game vs the Dores.

[Nate Colbert]

7th and final in a series:

Signability Issues, Late Movers, Late Rounders and Others

• Logan Landon, UTPA OF--wrote about him earlier but here’s a recap and an update. The Broncos senior outfielder was exclusively a pitcher in his three previous college seasons (one at Pan American, two at a Kansas JUCO). But he asked the coaches for a chance to play the outfield back in the fall and did well. Fast forward to this spring where he was one of the early leaders in batting average among D1 players. As expected, he didn’t keep up that pace but even so what he ended up doing was pretty remarkable. Wound up at .382/.476/.623 with 30 walks and 30 whiffs in 191 ABs. Did he do that against some pretty unremarkable pitchers? Sure, but UTPA also played 5 games this season against Texas A&M (twice), TCU (twice) and UT and Landon hit at an even better clip (.632) in those games. More specifically, against the #2 (Horned Frogs, 2.28), #25 (Aggies with a 3.07 ERA) and #31 (Longhorns, 3.22) ranked pitching staffs in the country this guy went 12-19 with a double, homer, 3 walks and 2 SBs. Looks like he’ll get drafted but what round is anybody’s guess. Here’s a quote from him last month in a feature on the UTPA website:

  "There have been about five or six teams that have contacted me," Landon said. "Two or three of them have been on me pretty hard the last couple of weeks. It is something cool. I have never been through that before. Coach Mantrana and coach Lopez have been really good about helping me decide what I am going to do, where I am going to do it, what to say and what not to say. These guys have been through it before. They have had guys drafted before, with the likes of Sam Street, Dusten Knight and Angel Ibanez. They know what to expect and they know what scouts are looking for and what they want to hear. It has been a cool experience for me."

  Listed at 6’2” 180 lbs. Never drafted previously.
• Beau Burrows, Weatherford HS RHP--allegedly touched 98 this spring. Kiley McDaniel of FG did suggest the possibility of an overslot deal for this guy so signability may be an issue. Possible 1st round supplemental pick. Listed at 6’2” 200 lbs. A&M commit.
• Luken Baker, Conroe Oak Ridge HS RHP--may have seen the news where this Gatorade Player of the Year wrote a letter to all 30 clubs telling them not to draft him as he was headed to college and wouldn’t sign for any amount of money (at the same time he, unlike Kyler Murray, has filed all necessary paperwork required to be drafted). Whether sincere or merely a ploy to make sure he gets drafted by a particular team in a pre-arranged deal remains to be seen. A projected 2nd-rounder. Listed at 6’4” 235 lbs. TCU commit.
• Cole McKay, Smithson Valley HS RHP--some guesswork here but probably an overslot deal would be necessary to lure him away from the SEC. Projected 2nd or 3rd rounder. Listed at 6’5” 215 lbs. LSU commit.
• Garrett Wolforth, Tomball Lutheran HS--a switch-hitter who has a cannon for an arm but there may be questions about the bat. Could be a signability issue. One of the younger players in the draft as he graduates from HS a year early. Listed at 6’2” 190 lbs. DBU commit.
• Justin Maese, El Paso Ysleta HS RHP--a kid who just recently “popped up” for scouts after hitting 96 on the gun this spring with an improved breaking ball. Also QB for the Indians. Listed at 6’3” 185 lbs. Texas Tech commit.
• Brandon Waddell, Virginia LHP--of the soft-tossing softpaw variety, is having  a disappointing season this year (4.15 ERA, 102 hits allowed in 91 innings) after a really solid sophomore season (2.45 ERA, just 98 hits allowed in 114 IP). Gave up 4 runs on 10 hits over 8 IP in the super regionals clincher vs Maryland yesterday. Houston area native out of Clear Lake HS. Listed at 6’3” 180 lbs. Never drafted.
• Diosdany Castillo, Cuban RHP--in addition to the two other types of Cuban players who have left the island (those who are true free agents and those subject to the international signing pools), this guy and the player following represent a third type: those who established residency in the U.S. and by doing so made themselves subject to the Rule 4 draft. The Marlins Jose Fernandez and Yunel Escobar of the Nationals were Cubans who went that route previously. Here is his BR page showing his statistics in the Serie Nacional. 27 years old and listed at 6’1” 220 lbs.
• Yoandy Fernandez, Cuban RHP--like Castillo, is 27 years old. A reliever in Cuba, here’s his BR page. Listed at 6’1” 170 lbs.
• Octavio Arroyo, Mexican RHP--interesting case of a kid who crossed the border to live with his grandparents and pitched for a San Diego HS, thereby making himself eligible for the Rule 4 draft. His grandparents are U.S. citizens as are three of their four children (the only exception being Octavio’s father). Originally projected to go in the first 20 rounds, a drafting club will have to work through the complications of securing a work visa for a guy who got deported. 18 years old and listed at 6’0” 180 lbs.

[astrosfan76]

@mlananna: Tyler Jay makes his second collegiate start and second this year. You have to go with your best arm. #MLBDraft  https://t.co/K7xFefQKed

[Nate Colbert]

Justin Hooper ‏@hooperbeballin  15 hours ago
Starting a new chapter in my life as I will be 100% honoring my commitment to Ucla. Can't wait to get down to Los Angeles in the fall.

Seen as a slam dunk 1st-rounder earlier (and possibly in the 1st 10 picks), a poor spring has seen him falling into 2nd round territory on draft boards. But his asking price supposedly remained extremely high. So perhaps he's now realized he's not gonna get what he's asking for and has resigned himself to being a Bruin. Perhaps.

[Nate Colbert]

That Illini/Dores game with Jay on the mound has been moved up to 5:00 from 8:00 on ESPNU.

[Reuben]

Callis/Mayo have an ongoing "draft buzz" column up now, wherein Mayo says the Astros could take Benintendi with a discount at #2 overall, in order to get Cameron at #37. Then again, he wrongly states that their 1/2 pick is "unprotected", so take it with a grain of salt. Might just be his speculation anyway.

[moriartp]

Then again, he wrongly states that their 1/2 pick is "unprotected", so take it with a grain of salt.

How do these guys keep getting this wrong? I think I saw Manuel say the same thing last week.

[Nate Colbert]

Phil Bickford caught tokin'.

[jbm]

Damn, that's a lot of strikeouts, even for Juco. 

[jbm]

Bregman must have done all his impressing earlier in the year, cause he doesn't look at all that good in the postseason.

Another great game going on in Baton Rouge.

[astrosfan76]

Callis/Mayo have an ongoing "draft buzz" column up now, wherein Mayo says the Astros could take Benintendi with a discount at #2 overall, in order to get Cameron at #37. Then again, he wrongly states that their 1/2 pick is "unprotected", so take it with a grain of salt. Might just be his speculation anyway.

It must have been Mayo, Callis noted on Twitter today that the pick is protected. Either way, I see nothing in the article now about the pick being protected or unprotected, so it must have been corrected.

[astrosfan76]

Bregman must have done all his impressing earlier in the year, cause he doesn't look at all that good in the postseason.

Another great game going on in Baton Rouge.

Came up with a big hit to break his 0-for post-season, hitting a 2 RBI single to put LSU up 3-0, then steals his 37th base of the season.

[jbm]

Well, it wasn't much of a hit, bouncing twice before it got out of the infield, but his ability to steal bases is impressive for a runner who doesn't look like he is base-stealing fast.  He probably does maximize his talents and that is impressive.

[pots]

I haven't seen this noted elsewhere: Heyman has a Draft column where he notes that Casey Close is the advisor for Swanson, Rodgers, and Tucker, among others. Hmmm...

If this made a damn bit of difference the players would have dropped him like a bad habit.  Who in their right mind wants an advisor who is at odds with the team picking second and fifth.

[Reuben]

If this made a damn bit of difference the players would have dropped him like a bad habit.  Who in their right mind wants an advisor who is at odds with the team picking second and fifth.

Well, there's been teams/GMs that were known to have less-than-smooth relationships with Bora$$, but he continues to represent scores of top amateur and pro players. I'm sure Close is good at convincing kids and their parents that they have nothing to worry about in this regard. But that doesn't mean it definitely won't make a damn but of difference.

To clarify, I'm not saying that the Astros would flat-out avoid a player because he's advised by Close. But if the bad blood and lack of trust between them prevents a pre-draft "agreement" from being nailed down, they might go with someone else.

[Jacksonian]

Well, there's been teams/GMs that were known to have less-than-smooth relationships with Bora$$, but he continues to represent scores of top amateur and pro players. I'm sure Close is good at convincing kids and their parents that they have nothing to worry about in this regard. But that doesn't mean it definitely won't make a damn but of difference.

To clarify, I'm not saying that the Astros would flat-out avoid a player because he's advised by Close. But if the bad blood and lack of trust between them prevents a pre-draft "agreement" from being nailed down, they might go with someone else.

I think this idea with Close is wildly overblown.

[Mr. Happy]

I think this idea with Close is wildly overblown.

+1 It's just business.

[Nate Colbert]

Our team ended up seeing him 5 times between regular and post season play.  He played SS against us and also pitched some.  He made some nice plays at SS but would be a better fit at 3rd or corner OF.  Word at the district tourney was that U of TN was looking at moving him to the outfield.  He has a very good bat.  He hit one out of pioneer park (Gville Astros home field) in their first district tourney game.  He hit it out to RF (LH Hitter) and it was a no doubter.  Word at the tourney was that if he is drafted in the higher rounds and got a good offer, he would sign and play pro ball.  I translate that to round doesn't matter as much as money does.

He also ran very well and showed good base running instincts as well. 

PS Son's team came out of the losers bracket and beat Grainger Co (Cabbage's team) twice to win the district championship.  The final game went to extra innings.  Cabbage showed class by walking over to our pitcher who threw a complete game and shaking his hand.  This happened after the hoopla had died down and most of his teammates had already left the field.

From the Knoxville newspaper:

"Cabbage should go round two or three and will most likely sign," a National League scout said on Sunday on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak publicly on prospects. "... There is zero chance, in my opinion, he goes to UT ... Trey Cabbage is the most draft-ready hitter in Tennessee."

"We feel very confident I could go in the top five (rounds)," said Cabbage, who bats left and throws right. "I'd like to go in the top three. We set a money range and a goal for the draft, and if that goal's not met, I'll end up at Tennessee. ... But this dream will be hard to pass up."

[astrosfan76]

Well, it wasn't much of a hit, bouncing twice before it got out of the infield, but his ability to steal bases is impressive for a runner who doesn't look like he is base-stealing fast.  He probably does maximize his talents and that is impressive.

Make up for some of the harder-hit balls that have gone for outs?

[astrosfan76]

MLB.com with another mock this morning. At #2, both Callis and Mayo have the club taking Bregman. They disagree on the pick at #5, with Callis going with Benintendi and Mayo going with Tate. Callis mentions the club wanting a HS bat, but if Cameron is still available, they could go with Benintendi here and wait for Cameron at #37. Mayo has the Rangers picking Cameron, so he concedes they could also pick Tucker with the #5 pick.

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/129269966/shortstops-remain-atop-latest-mock-draft

[ckutac]

Does Bergman have a strong enough arm to stay at SS?  I had not seem him before the Super Regional's.  And me and anouther guy both looked at each other right away wondering if he had a Pro arm to stick at SS long term after a few of his throws.

[Mr. Happy]

Does Bergman have a strong enough arm to stay at SS?  I had not seem him before the Super Regional's.  And me and anouther guy both looked at each other right away wondering if he had a Pro arm to stick at SS long term after a few of his throws.

I think that he does, but with that said, I see him shifting to either 3B or 2B.

[jbm]

Yeah, I've seen him enough to think he can stick at short.  I see Lowrie level: won't cover a lot of ground but will make the plays he gets to.  Other than that however, I'd be very disappointed if he is their pick at #2.  Sure, I've only seen about 10 ABs and that is certainly a short sample and I am no scout for sure, but in my experience, if you are going to be a first division regular, much less a potential all star, you will most likely look much better in those ABs against what is A ball arms.  If there is so much hype, I am undoubtedly missing something, but a top five pick??

[Mr. Happy]

Yeah, I've seen him enough to think he can stick at short.  I see Lowrie level: won't cover a lot of ground but will make the plays he gets to.  Other than that however, I'd be very disappointed if he is their pick at #2.  Sure, I've only seen about 10 ABs and that is certainly a short sample and I am no scout for sure, but in my experience, if you are going to be a first division regular, much less a potential all star, you will most likely look much better in those ABs against what is A ball arms.  If there is so much hype, I am undoubtedly missing something, but a top five pick??

For the record, I agree with you if we're talking about current Bregman. He looked much better as a freshman.

[roadrunner]

I saw on Twitter that Callis is speculating the Astros are discussing a deal with Daz Cameron at #2.

[pots]

For the record, I agree with you if we're talking about current Bregman. He looked much better as a freshman.

Bah, I dislike it when folks peak early.  Like to go after guys like Bryant and Nola where they improve year over year and you don't know where their limits might be.

[jbm]

Happy, thanks for the feedback.  Looking back, I see he hit about 40 points better as a freshman.  Any thoughts on why he hasn't been able to repeat that for the last two years?  Injury?  The effects of what coaches are wanting from him?  Him trying to slug more, and the average suffering?

[Nate Colbert]

I saw on Twitter that Callis is speculating the Astros are discussing a deal with Daz Cameron at #2.

Do you have a link to that? A review of Callis' own tweets and posts don't seem to support that.

[Mr. Happy]

Happy, thanks for the feedback.  Looking back, I see he hit about 40 points better as a freshman.  Any thoughts on why he hasn't been able to repeat that for the last two years?  Injury?  The effects of what coaches are wanting from him?  Him trying to slug more, and the average suffering?

He got off to a very slow start last season. A fair amount of it was that teams were pitching around him, and he was hitting the ball hard, but right at people. He was pretty consistent this season. He's a fine player, and we're glad to have him and on our way to Omaha.

[Duder]

ESPN article on whether Puerto Ricans belong in the stateside or potential international draft.

This article leads into a thought I had about undrafted free agents. It seems roughly ten players get drafted from Puerto Rico a year and not too many play at the collegiate level. I would contend there's a number of talented players who aren't getting opportunity to play pro or college ball. The Astros could sign some of these players as UDFAs (any bonus under 100k wouldn't count against the bonus pool.)

[Nate Colbert]

BA has an article out on the youngest players in the draft. A few of the more relevant or previously-mentioned guys:

• OF Andrew Benintendi is the 10th youngest college position player available in the draft.
• C Garrett Wolforth of Tomball Concordia Lutheran is the 4th youngest HS position player available.
• SS Richie Martin of the Gators is the youngest college position player available.

[pots]

Bah, I dislike it when folks peak early.  Like to go after guys like Bryant and Nola where they improve year over year and you don't know where their limits might be.

This being said, my wish list is Swanson and Fulmer.  Both have made big strides each year.  Benintendi would be a nice consolation prize.  Hopefully one of the big high school names falls to them at 37 

[juliogotay]

This being said, my wish list is Swanson and Fulmer.  Both have made big strides each year.

I would not be disappointed in Tucker just because I keep hearing he has a higher ceiling than Preston.

[pots]

I would not be disappointed in Tucker just because I keep hearing he has a higher ceiling than Preston.

Certainly wouldn't be a bad idea to gamble on a top high schooler.  Get one "safer" pick and one high risk/reward type.    Though they seemed poised to snag somebody good at 37.  Likely to be one high schooler that drops due to signability in a field that has a lot of mlb caliber players but no supersrtars (at least that is what I read)

[jbm]

Screw safe picks.  Those are guys you can eventually acquire in free agency. 

[moriartp]

New mock from Law has Bregman at 2, Benintendi at 5. Cameron falls out of rd 1 and they presumably pop him at 37.

[Nate Colbert]

Now klaw seems to subscribe to the Callis theory...

keithlaw ‏@keithlaw  8 minutes ago

Yes, that's a legitimate possibility.

             @keithlaw Are you guessing Astros get Cameron at #37?

[pots]

Screw safe picks.  Those are guys you can eventually acquire in free agency.

Just because one went to college and is more developed does not make them average players.  Some of these college guys could be allstars. 

[jbm]

I didn't say anything about college players, just safe picks.  I'm sure there are a lot of high upside, high risk picks in the college pool.

[pots]

I didn't say anything about college players, just safe picks.  I'm sure there are a lot of high upside, high risk picks in the college pool.

Ah, well I was only referring to college players being safer picks than high school players.  Their floor is easier to determine. 

[Knoxbanedoodle]

This being said, my wish list is Swanson and Fulmer.  Both have made big strides each year.  Benintendi would be a nice consolation prize.  Hopefully one of the big high school names falls to them at 37

I am hoping for Swanson/Rogers and Benintendi. Cameron at 37 would be a coup.

[toddthebod]

I'd love to see the Astros get Cameron at 37.  If he's really asking for $5 million, I don't think anyone else can afford to pay that amount.  But I keep hearing that he's not going to get past the Braves at 14.

[Noe]

I'd like the Astros to get Kyle Funkhouser at some point in the draft. Only because I think it would be cool to hear all the comments about "Funky's delivery". Okay, nevermind.

[juliogotay]

I'd like the Astros to get Kyle Funkhouser at some point in the draft. Only because I think it would be cool to hear all the comments about "Funky's delivery". Okay, nevermind.

He needs to go to the Braves so they can have Folty and Funky.

[Ebby Calvin]

Alright Bus Drivers, call your shots.

[jbm]

I'm calling Benintendi with the 2nd, some high schooler with the 5th, and at least 2 way over slot guys later.

[Jacksonian]

Alright Bus Drivers, call your shots.

This draft is wacko.  Everything depends on Arizona.  But my guess is, if he isn't taken at #1 then Rodgers is the guy at 2.  If Rodgers is gone at #1 then it's Swanson at 2.  At 5 I'm thinking either Tate or Benintendi or Fulmer.  37 will be a high ceiling high schooler.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Rodgers/Tate/Cameron.  But I'm an optimist.

[pots]

This draft is wacko.  Everything depends on Arizona.  But my guess is, if he isn't taken at #1 then Rodgers is the guy at 2.  If Rodgers is gone at #1 then it's Swanson at 2.  At 5 I'm thinking either Tate or Benintendi or Fulmer.  37 will be a high ceiling high schooler.

(Edit going bolder)
For a prediction, pretty much this ^^^
 - Rodgers at 2.
 - Tate at 5
 - Daz at #37

Want for me is #2 Swanson, #5 Fulmer, #37 Daz

[Reuben]

(Edit going bolder)
For a prediction, pretty much this ^^^
 - Rodgers at 2.
 - Tate at 5
 - Dez at #37

Want for me is #2 Swanson, #5 Fulmer, #37 Dez

It's Daz Cameron. You're thinking of the former Black Flag singer/guitarist, Dez Cadena.

I think for once the experts have the Astros pretty much nailed:
Bregman 2, Benintendi 5, Daz 37.

If the D'backs don't take Swanson, maybe the Astros take him and have to improvise a bit.

[pots]

It's Daz Cameron. You're thinking of the former Black Flag singer/guitarist, Dez Cadena.

I think for once the experts have the Astros pretty much nailed:
Bregman 2, Benintendi 5, Daz 37.

If the D'backs don't take Swanson, maybe the Astros take him and have to improvise a bit.

Actually I was thinking Dez Bryant.  Never heard of a Daz (till now)

[pots]

It's Daz Cameron. You're thinking of the former Black Flag singer/guitarist, Dez Cadena.

I think for once the experts have the Astros pretty much nailed:
Bregman 2, Benintendi 5, Daz 37.

If the D'backs don't take Swanson, maybe the Astros take him and have to improvise a bit.

FYI, the experts admit they have no idea in each mock.  The DBacks are on 4 guys, Swanson, Stephenson,  Jay and Fulmer.  The DBacks have chosen but they have been mum

[Reuben]

By the way, if Cameron could conceivably fall to #37, I wonder if Tucker could, if he was the Astros' preferred target? Granted, I've seen mocks where he went as low as #10 or 11, and there's been no "buzz" about him having a high price tag, like Cameron.

It's the Astros, so of course you have to wonder if some of this widely-reported stuff is a smokescreen.

[Reuben]

I assume someone's going to lock this thread and start a new one? That's how it's usually done, right?

Or, in light of the circumstances, we could have a combined Game Zone/Bus Ride thread for the night.

[pots]

(Edit going bolder)
For a prediction, pretty much this ^^^
 - Rodgers at 2.
 - Tate at 5
 - Daz at #37

Want for me is #2 Swanson, #5 Fulmer, #37 Daz

Oops not enough money for my picks.  Change #37 to Mateulla

[astrosfan76]

Rodgers
Benintendi
High-upside HS player

I'd like for that pick at #37 to be Cameron, but we'll see.

[OregonStrosFan]

I assume someone's going to lock this thread and start a new one? That's how it's usually done, right?

Or, in light of the circumstances, we could have a combined Game Zone/Bus Ride thread for the night.

Sure, here goes... 

[OregonStrosFan]

In order to keep separate pre- and draft/post-draft threads, this '2015 Draft thread' is now closed and the '2015 Draftees and Status' thread is now open.